Executive Functions and Lifestyle in the Elderly: Study in a Portuguese Sample

Abstract

Abstract Background: The global elderly population has been increasing, with aging often causing declines in cognitive abilities, notably executive functions. Objective: Analyze the relationship between executive functions and lifestyle in the aging process and to verify whether the relationship between executive functions and lifestyle is influenced by sociodemographic variables (gender, age, marital status, education and professional situation). Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 276 participants (205 female), aged between 55 and 99 years old (M=75.28 and SD=10.359). Results: Advancing age and low education level affect the performance of executive functions, and marital status (in this case, being in a romantic relationship) can work as a protective factor as it increases this performance. Women and individuals in romantic relationships have a healthier lifestyle, and individuals with a low level of education have a less healthy lifestyle. Conclusions: These results have important implications in terms of public policy. Providing an environment that promotes health and a healthy lifestyle is essential to preserve good cognitive performance. Keywords: Cognitive aging, Executive functions, Lifestyle, Aging, Older adult.