Physical Activity and Cognitive Impairment

A new study shows that physical activity may reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairment. The INVADE study, completed almost 4,000 people older than 55 years, showed that people who engaged in some form of physical activity three times a week or more were less likely to develop memory problems over two years.

This study showed a relation between “strenuous” physical activity as reported by participants and cognition two years later. Strenuous activities walking, bicycling, swimming, gardening, “or other exercise,” so the types of physical activity were diverse. The inclusion of walking and gardening in the definition of physical activity suggests that even moderate activity may be useful in helping older adults avoid cognitive decline. Persons who said they did some form of activity three times a week were classified as “moderately active” while those who were active more frequently were classified in a “high activity” group.

The bottom line: Another study shows that even moderate activity may help prevent cognitive decline as people age.

Reference:

Etgen T et al. (2010). Physical activity and incident cognitive impairment in elderly persons: The INVADE study. Archives of Internal Medicine, 170, 186-193. Free full text is available at the journal website.