The Association Between Physical Activity, Obesity, and Cognition in Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Abstract

As rates of obesity continue to rise, so does the impact of obesity on cognitive function. Engaging in physical activity is one pathway through which individuals can help maintain cognitive function. This study examined whether any link between exercise and cognitive function was associated with weight characteristics. Data from 6,012 participants in the Health and Retirement Study were used. The association between participation in light or moderate physical activity and better cognitive function was particularly strong for overweight or obese adults and less so for those who were normal weight. Overall, the findings suggested that while being physically active is associated with better cognitive function regardless of weight, the associations were stronger for individuals who were overweight/obese compared with those who were normal weight. Given the results were particularly pronounced for waist circumference (relative to body mass index), further research should be conducted to examine if individuals with greater abdominal adiposity may benefit most from staying active in terms of their cognitive function.