Motoric functions and cognition in elderly

Abstract

The prolonging of a lifespan and the increasing proportion of elderly people in general population are setting new healthcare tasks. One of them is researching and clarifying the relations and links between motoric and cognitive functions in elderly. 'Impoverishment' of cognitive capacities occurs during the aging process. Many studies show a strong link between cognition and the function of walking. There is growing evidence that the decline in cognitive functions is resulting in deterioration of walking. Usually described as characteristic of the later stages of dementia, the distortion of ambulation may also be present in the earlier stages, even before the prodromal stage of mild cognitive impairment. Speed and temporal and spatial variability of steps are the main gait characteristics which are connected to the degree of decline in cognitive processes. Those characteristics are motor phenotype that reflects the deterioration of cognitive performance and which can be used for prediction of dementia. It is assumed that physical activity provides beneficial effects at cognitive and psychological levels, including prevention and improvement of depressive states and anxiety disorders, enhancing stress reduction, improved self-confidence and above all it delays cognitive decline in the elderly. Disruption of axons and myelin in the cerebral white matter is considered one of the primary mechanisms underlying age-related cognitive decline. Therefore, maintaining white matter structural connectivity in the old age may be one of the key factors in preserving brain function and high cognitive performance necessary for independent living. Physical activity also influences cerebrovascular mechanisms, such as preserving higher blood vessel elasticity and wall integrity. Moreover, there is an association between light physical activity and white matter integrity especially in the temporal lobe. The conclusion of some studies shows a relationship between the ε4 allele and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) response to physiologic adaptation which likely impacts the extent of neuroprotective benefit gained from engagement in physical exercise. Some authors propose a program of exercises which consist of a combined aerobic and resistance training. Motoric function and cognition are closely related and using regular physical activity is important for maintaining physical and mental health in the elderly.