The association between sedentary behavior and cognitive ability in older adults.

The association between sedentary behavior and cognitive ability in older adults.
Aging Clin Exp Res. 2020 Jan 02;:
Authors: Coelho L, Hauck K, McKenzie K, Copeland JL, Kan IP, Gibb RL, Gonzalez CLR
Abstract
Executive functions (EF) are a grouping of cognitive abilities essential for daily life. Previous research has shown that physical activity (PA) may in fact preserve EF in older adults, but the link between sedentary behavior (SB) and cognitive ability has been less explored. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between SB and cognition (executive function and memory) in older adults. Seventy five older adults (74.6 ± 9 years) self-reported their sedentary time (ST) and PA, as well as EF ability (paper-based measure of EF). Participants also completed several performance-based measures of EF and a memory task. Older adults who were less sedentary had superior EF and memory (e.g., Stroop time was significantly faster in less sedentary adults (34.7 s ± 1.9) compared to more sedentary adults (39.6 s ± 1.8), p = .02). Regression analysis showed that total ST was associated with several measures of EF after adjusting for age, and physical activity (e.g., Stroop time β =  .005 (.002, .009). Less cognitively demanding SB (TV viewing and napping) was associated with worse performance on most EF and in the memory task. Performing a hobby was also associated with lower levels of EF and memory...

Source: Aging Clinical and Experimental Research - January 1, 2020 Category: Geriatrics Authors: Coelho L, Hauck K, McKenzie K, Copeland JL, Kan IP, Gibb RL, Gonzalez CLR Tags: Aging Clin Exp Res Source Type: research