Physical activity and cognitive health

Abstract

Background The industrialized nations are experiencing a demographic revolution caused by the continuing increase in longevity and the rapid rise in the percentage of the population older than 65 years. Interventions that promote healthy aging will continue to gain significance as efforts to delay disability and loss of function intensify. Methods Because physical activity has been implicated in promoting healthy aging, here we review a large body of research that examines physical activity and cognitive health. Specifically, we focus on the associations of physical activity with cognitive function and dementia, including prevention, delay, or slowing down of disease progression. Thus, we have prepared a descriptive review of the literature including various types of publications, prospective cohort, case-control, clinical trial, and meta-analysis articles published since 1999 in peer-reviewed journals. Results On the basis of currently available data, we conclude that the relative risk of cognitive decline with aging might diminish in individuals who are physically active; however, this has not been definitively demonstrated thus far. Conclusions Further research is needed to determine conclusively the effects of physical activity on cognitive function and dementia and to elucidate the basis for this linkage.