The association of physical activity and cognitive decline has become important with the increase in dementia prevalence. These systematic review and meta‐analysis of longitudinal studies demonstrate that association

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundDementia is increasing in prevalence across our globally ageing population. In absence of disease modifying therapy, the need to assess the effectiveness of preventative measures becomes important. It is becoming clear that intervention before disease manifests is crucial. Physical activity (PA) is the most influential risk factor for dementia, examining impact on cognitive decline is important to discern.MethodOur search criteria involved conducting a database search through MEDLINE (Ovid) as well as examining two prior reviews, with protocol registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42019129449). Longitudinal studies on population ≥18 years of age with cognition measured at both baseline and follow‐up were included. Included studies were assessed for their methodological quality.ResultOverall, 42 studies were included, with literature showing evidence of an association between increase PA and reduced cognitive decline. Components of PA were reported on as follows: frequency in 37 studies, intensity in 28 studies, duration in 25 studies, and type in 22 studies. Meta‐analysis showed PA of greater frequency and duration, and more vigorous intensity, was significantly associated with reduced cognitive decline (relative risk 0.72, 95% confidence interval 0.62, 0.82; p<0.001).ConclusionData available to date suggests that a wide range of different types of activity may be important on influencing preventive impact. In addition frequency, duration and intensity of PA are each significantly associated with reduced cognitive decline where greater frequency and duration of PA are associated with reduced cognitive decline, as is increased average intensity. PA recommendations are required to increase adherence in order to delay the onset of cognitive decline. It is important that future studies examine these details as this review revealed a paucity of research on key components to guide adherence to recommendations.