Cognitive Health In Older Adults Research Articles

Exploring the Impact of Preoperative Sleep Fragmentation on Cognitive Function in Mice: The Role of Microglial Activation and Iron Metabolism

Background. Perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND) are a significant concern, particularly for aged individuals. Sleep fragmentation (SF), a common condition in older adults, is considered a risk factor for PND. The present study explored the impact of SF on cognitive function and its association with microglial activation and iron metabolism. Methods. Adult and aged C57BL/6J mice were subjected to tibial fracture surgery (TFS) and varying durations of SF. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze and fear conditioning experiments. Microglial activation was evaluated by measuring CD68 protein expression and inflammatory cytokine levels. Iron metabolism and ferroptosis-related proteins were also examined. Results. SF significantly impacted spatial memory and conditioned fear responses in mice, with aged mice showing greater susceptibility. Microglial activation, indicated by changes in CD68 protein expression and inflammatory cytokine levels, was observed in mice exposed to SF. Alterations in iron metabolism, as evidenced by changes in hippocampal iron content and expression of ferroptosis-related proteins, were also observed in these mice. Conclusion. SF can lead to significant cognitive impairment, particularly in aged mice, likely mediated through microglial activation and dysregulated iron metabolism. These findings provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of PND and suggest potential targets for intervention. Significance. This study illuminates the complex interactions between SF, microglial activation, and cognitive function. It highlights the importance of sleep quality for cognitive health in older adults and points to potential therapeutic strategies for preventing PND, including targeting microglial activation and iron metabolism.

Impact of Short-Term Computerized Cognitive Training on Cognition in Older Adults With and Without Genetic Risk of Alzheimer's Disease: Outcomes From the START Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectivesTo establish the impact of a 3-minute computerized cognitive training program (START) on cognition in older adults with and without genetic risk of Alzheimer's disease. DesignTwo-arm randomized controlled trial of the START program. Setting and ParticipantsRemote online trial in adults older than 50 taking part from home. MethodsThe trial compared the START program with placebo in 6544 people older than 50. Primary outcome was executive function measured through Trailmaking B, with other secondary cognitive measures. Genetic risk profile and ApoE4 status were determined by Illumina Array. ResultsSTART conferred benefit to executive function, attention, memory, and a composite measure, including in people with the ApoE4 genotype. Conclusions and ImplicationsThe 3-minute START task offers a means of supporting cognitive health in older adults and could be used at scale and within a precision medicine approach to reduce risk of cognitive decline in a targeted way.

Associations between regular physical exercise and physical, emotional, and cognitive health of older adults in China: an 8-year longitudinal study with propensity score matching.

The importance of healthy aging is growing in China as it has the largest number of older adults in the world and is one of the fastest-aging countries. This study aimed to examine the predictive value of regular physical exercise in relation to the physical, emotional, and cognitive health among samples of adults aged ≥60 years in China during an 8-year period. A total of 10,691 older adults were extracted from two waves of national data from the China Family Panel Studies in 2010 and 2018. To minimize the impact of selection bias on the findings, a longitudinal propensity score matching (LPSM) method was used to examine the relationships between regular physical exercise and emotional health (depression), between regular physical exercise and physical health (instrumental activities of daily living), and between regular physical exercise and cognitive health (cognitive ability) of older adults. After LPSM, 856 older adults were included in the study. In the regular physical exercise group, the average age of participants at baseline year was 65.67 years, with an average age of 65.90 years for 238 men and 65.45 years for 190 women, and in the non-physical exercise group, their average age at baseline year was 65.70 years, with an average age of 65.45 years for 253 men and 65.98 years for 175 women. LPSM indicated that regular physical exercise has been found to be effective in improving physical function and reducing depressive symptoms in old adults, even after controlling for background differences. However, the sensitivity analysis suggests that the positive association between regular physical exercise and cognitive function may not be sufficiently valid. The findings of this study indicate that engaging in long-term structured and repetitive physical exercise can have a significant positive effect on reducing depressive symptoms and improving the physical function of older adults. As a result, incorporating regular physical exercise into the lifestyle of older adults is recognized as an effective strategy for promoting healthy aging and reducing the strain on public health resources.

Perceived Discrimination and Incident Dementia Among Older Adults in the United States: The Buffering Role of Social Relationships.

Recent studies have found that perceived discrimination as a chronic stressor predicts poorer cognitive health. However, little research has investigated how social relationships as potential intervening mechanisms may mitigate or exacerbate this association. Using a nationally representative sample of U.S. older adults, this study examined how the existence and quality of 4 types of relationships-with a partner, children, other family members, and friends-may modify the impact of perceived discrimination on incident dementia. We analyzed data from the 2006 to 2016 Health and Retirement Study (N = 12,236) using discrete-time event history models with competing risks. We used perceived discrimination, social relationships, and their interactions at the baseline to predict the risk of incident dementia in the follow-ups. Perceived discrimination predicted a higher risk of incident dementia in the follow-ups. Although having a partner or not did not modify this association, partnership support attenuated the negative effects of discrimination on incident dementia. Neither the existence nor quality of relationships with children, other family members, or friends modified the association. Our findings imply that intimate partnership plays a critical role in coping with discrimination and, consequently, influencing the cognitive health of older adults. Although perceived discrimination is a significant risk factor for the incidence of dementia, better partnership quality may attenuate this association. Policies that eliminate discrimination and interventions that strengthen intimate partnerships may facilitate better cognitive health in late life.

Muscle density, but not size, is independently associated with cognitive health in older adults with hip fractures.

Emerging evidence indicates a complex interplay between skeletal muscle and cognitive function. Despite the known differences between muscle quantity and quality, which can be measured via computed tomography (CT), the precise nature of their associations with cognitive performance remain underexplored. To investigate the links between muscle size and density and cognitive impairment (CI) in the older adults with hip fractures, we conducted a post hoc, cross-sectional analysis within a prospective cohort study on 679 patients with hip fractures over 65. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and routine hip CT imaging were utilized to assess cognition function and muscle characteristics in older adults with hip fractures. The CT scans provided data on cross-sectional area and attenuation for the gluteus maximus (G.MaxM) and the combined gluteus medius and minimus (G.Med/MinM). Participants were categorized into CI and non-CI groups based on education levels and MMSE scores. Multivariate logistic regressions, propensity score (PS) methods, and subgroup analysis were employed to analyze associations and validate findings. This study included 123 participants (81.6 ± 6.8years, 74% female) with CI and 556 participants (78.5 ± 7.7years, 72% female) without. Compared to the non-CI group, muscle parameters, especially density, were significantly lower in the CI group. Specifically, G.Med/Min muscle density, but not size was robustly associated with CI (odds ratio (OR) = 0.77, 95% confidence interval = 0.62-0.96, P = 0.02), independent of other medical situations. Sensitivity analysis corroborated that G.Med/Min muscle density was consistently lower in the CI group than the non-CI group, as evidenced in the PS matched (P = 0.024) and weighted cohort (P = 0.033). Enhanced muscle parameters, particularly muscle density in the G.Med/MinM muscle, correlate with a lower risk of CI. Muscle density demonstrates a stronger association with cognitive performance than muscle size, highlighting its potential as a key focus in future cognitive health research.

Exercise for health in old age: Comprehensive review examining the benefits and efficacy of interven-tions

The elderly are a growing age group and an integral part of modern society. The aging process brings significant health challenges, and therefore, exercise has an important role to play in maintaining the quality of life and well-being of older adults. This review aims to explore the role of health exercise in older adults, including its benefits, appropriate types of activities, and factors that influence exercise participation in this age group. Health exercise among older adults was the subject of this systematic review, focusing on the benefits and effectiveness of interventions. This study conducted a keyword search ("exercise activity of the elderly" OR "physical activity for the elderly" AND "benefits of exercise in the elderly" OR "effects of exercise in the elderly" AND "effectiveness of health interventions" OR "physical health of the elderly" AND "exercise health intervention" OR "fitness in old age") on databases (ScienceDirect: 1,2011 and PubMed 1,039) following the Preferred Report-ing Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify articles that addressed the benefits and effectiveness of exercise health interventions in the elderly. Following the exclusion criteria, a total of 15 relevant articles were categorized. The review presented the benefits of health exercise in older adults. In the first group, a 12-week moderate-to-high intensity exercise program was shown to improve various aspects of physical and cognitive health in older adults. These included increases in body mass, functional capacity, muscle strength and reduced risk of age-related diseases. The second group highlighted the benefits of exercise through specific sporting activities, with improved sleep, decreased pain perception and protection from death anxiety. In addition, this group also demonstrated the effectiveness of various exercise therapies in supporting healthy aging. In the third group, the implementation of physical activity and lifestyle was shown to be effective in increasing physical activity levels among older adults and helping to prevent decline in physical function. This review highlights the importance of health exercise in improving the health and well-being of older adults. The findings can serve as a foundation for designing more effective interventions to support active and healthy lifestyles among older adults. This comprehensive strategy aims to enhance the overall well-being of the elderly population, fostering a better quality of life and mitigating the impact of age-related ailments. As such, it necessitates an approach that takes into account individual requirements and constraints. Beyond its health advantages, exercise holds significant social implications. Engaging in physical activity facilitates social interaction for older adults, helping them sustain connections with their community, friends, and family, thereby addressing the prevalent issue of social isolation. In this context, the involvement of family, healthcare professionals, and the community plays a pivotal role in supporting the elderly's participation in physical activities. Providing education, assistance, and cultivating a conducive environment for exercise are crucial measures to ensure an optimal quality of life for the elderly demographic. Keywords: Sports health, sports benefits, physical activity, older age, active lifestyle

Digital interventions for healthy ageing and cognitive health in older adults: a systematic review of mixed method studies and meta-analysis

BackgroundCurrently, there is no systematic review to investigate the effectiveness of digital interventions for healthy ageing and cognitive health of older adults. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of digital intervention studies for facilitating healthy ageing and cognitive health and further identify the considerations of its application to older adults.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis of literature were conducted across CINAHL, Medline, ProQuest, Cochrane, Scopus, and PubMed databases following the PRISMA guideline. All included studies were appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool Checklist by independent reviewers. Meta-analyses were performed using JBI SUMARI software to compare quantitative studies. Thematic analyses were used for qualitative studies and synthesised into the emerging themes.ResultsThirteen studies were included. Quantitative results showed no statistically significant pooled effect between health knowledge and healthy behaviour (I2 =76, p=0.436, 95% CI [-0.32,0.74]), and between cardiovascular-related health risks and care dependency I2=0, p=0.426, 95% CI [0.90,1.29]). However, a statistically significant cognitive function preservation was found in older adults who had long-term use of laptop/cellphone devices and had engaged in the computer-based physical activity program (I2=0, p<0.001, 95% CI [0.01, 0.21]). Qualitative themes for the considerations of digital application to older adults were digital engagement, communication, independence, human connection, privacy, and cost.ConclusionsDigital interventions used in older adults to facilitate healthy ageing were not always effective. Health knowledge improvement does not necessarily result in health risk reduction in that knowledge translation is key. Factors influencing knowledge translation (i.e., digital engagement, human coaching etc) were identified to determine the intervention effects. However, using digital devices appeared beneficial to maintain older adults’ cognitive functions in the longer term. Therefore, the review findings suggest that the expanded meaning of a person-centred concept (i.e., from social, environmental, and healthcare system aspects) should be pursued in future practice. Privacy and cost concerns of technologies need ongoing scrutiny from policy bodies. Future research looking into the respective health benefits can provide more understanding of the current digital intervention applied to older adults.Study registrationPROSPERO record ID: CRD42023400707 https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=400707.

Effects of neighborhood built environment on cognitive function in older adults: a systematic review

BackgroundIn the background of an aging population, the risk of cognitive impairment in the older population is prominent. Exposure to complex neighborhood built environments may be beneficial to the cognitive health of older adults, and the purpose of this study was to systematically review the scientific evidence on the effects of neighborhood built environments on cognitive function in older adults.MethodsKeywords and references were searched in Web of Science, Pubmed, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE. Studies examining the relationship between the built environment and cognitive function in older adults were included. The neighborhood built environment as an independent variable was classified according to seven aspects: density, design, diversity, destination accessibility, public transportation distance, blue/green space, and built environment quality. The cognitive function as the dependent variable was classified according to overall cognitive function, domain-specific cognitive function, and incidence of dementia. The quality of the included literature was assessed using the National Institutes of Health's Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Study Quality Assessment Tool.ResultsA total of 56 studies were included that met the inclusion criteria, including 31 cross-sectional studies, 23 longitudinal studies, 1 cross-sectional study design combined with a case-control design, and 1 longitudinal study design combined with a case-control design. Most of the studies reviewed indicate that the built environment factors that were positively associated with cognitive function in older adults were population density, street connectivity, walkability, number of public transportation stops around the residence, land use mix, neighborhood resources, green space, and quality of the neighborhood built environment. Built environment factors that were negatively associated with cognitive function in older adults were street integration, distance from residence to main road. The relationship between residential density, destination accessibility, and blue space with cognitive function in older adults needs to be further explored.ConclusionPreliminary evidence suggests an association between the neighborhood built environment and cognitive function in older adults. The causal relationship between the built environment and cognitive function can be further explored in the future using standardized and combined subjective and objective assessment methods, and longitudinal or quasi-experimental study designs. For public health interventions on the cognitive health of older adults, it is recommended that relevant authorities include the neighborhood built environment in their intervention programs.

A retrospective analysis of serious adverse events and deaths in U.S.-based lifestyle clinical trials for cognitive health

ObjectiveThis retrospective analysis examined serious adverse events (SAEs) and deaths in U.S. lifestyle clinical trials aimed at enhancing cognitive health in older adults. MethodsData was gathered from trials completed between January 1, 2000, and July 19, 2023, via ClinicalTrials.gov's API. ResultsAmong these trials, 76% did not report results. The remaining studies fell into four intervention categories: Cognitive/Behavioral, Exercise/Movement, Diet/Supplement, and Multi-modal. When considering all trial types collectively, the findings suggest that lifestyle clinical trials are generally safe. There was no significant increase in the relative risk of experiencing an SAE in the intervention group compared to the control group. However, in terms of relative risk of death, an increase of 28% was observed in the intervention compared to the control, which was statistically significant (X2 (1, N = 36), p < 0.00688). Nevertheless, this increase did not surpass age-adjusted U.S. mortality rates. Assessing the data by intervention type, Diet/Supplement, and Multi-modal trials displayed an elevated relative risk of SAEs in the intervention. Diet/Supplement trials had a 16% increase (X2 (1, N = 2), p < 0.0263), and Multi-modal trials had a 365% increase (X2 (1, N = 5), p < 0.000213). Diet/Supplement trials also showed a 67% increased risk of death (X2 (1, N = 2), p < 0.000197). ConclusionsThese findings should be cautiously considered due to the low rate of reporting, but underscore the significance of reporting clinical trial results, enhancing transparency, and facilitating more accurate safety assessments in cognitive aging and lifestyle interventions for older adults.

Benzodiazepine Consumption, Functionality, Cognition, and Somnolence in Older Adults at a Tertiary Care Psychiatric Hospital in Mexico City.

The aging population in Mexico, particularly those aged 60 and above, faces challenges in healthcare, including potentially inappropriate prescriptions of benzodiazepines. Physiological changes in older adults make precise drug prescriptions crucial. This study aims to evaluate and compare functionality, cognition, and daytime somnolence in older adults using benzodiazepines versus non-users. Additionally, it outlines the demographic and clinical characteristics of both groups. A cross-sectional study enrolled 162 participants aged 60 and above, categorized as benzodiazepine consumers or non-consumers. Assessment tools included Lawton's Index, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and Benzodiazepine Dependence Questionnaire. Statistical analysis employed t-tests and chi-square tests. Benzodiazepine users (n=81) exhibited lower cognitive scores, increased sleepiness, and reduced daily living activities compared to non-users (n=81). Demographically, BZD users had lower education levels. Benzodiazepine use in older adults is associated with cognitive decline, daytime somnolence, and functional limitations, emphasizing the need for cautious prescription practices and continual monitoring. This study contributes insights into the impact of benzodiazepines on the cognitive health of older adults in Mexico.

COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH INTERSECTING SEXUAL, GENDER, RACIAL, AND ETHNIC MINORITY IDENTITIES

Abstract Emerging research shows Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) older adults experience higher prevalence of cognitive impairment when compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers of a similar age. The same is true for racial and ethnic minority older adults when compared to their White counterparts. Little is known about the cognitive health of older adults with intersecting sexual, gender, racial, and ethnic minority identities, highlighting a critical gap in gerontological research that requires further investigation. This study utilizes four time-point data from the first longitudinal study of a racially and ethnically diverse sample of LGBTQ older adults. Multilevel mixed models accounting for intersecting sexual, gender, racial, and ethnic identities were applied to examine subgroup differences in cognitive impairment as well as risk and protective factors after controlling for confounding factors. Black and Hispanic LGBTQ minority older adults (b=5.20, p&amp;lt;.01; b=4.05, p&amp;lt;.01) experience higher levels of cognitive impairment over time when compared to their White LGBTQ peers. Day-to-day discrimination targeting the confluence of sexual/gender and racial/ethnic minority status (b=2.78, p&amp;lt;.05) was positively associated with higher cognitive impairment. Community engagement (b=-.46, p&amp;lt;.05) was negatively associated with cognitive impairment regardless of race and ethnicity whereas network size was exclusively negatively associated with cognitive impairment for Black LGBTQ older adults. The overall findings demonstrate racial and ethnic differences in cognitive impairment among LGBTQ older adults and illuminate the importance of culturally tailored interventions that account for intersectionality, social connectivity, and discrimination to promote cognitive health for specific subgroups.

The Impact of Aging on Neurological Function and Cognitive Decline

This comprehensive analysis delves into the multifaceted impact of aging on neurological function and cognitive decline, incorporating insights from studies on music, video games, and mindfulness. It explores significant alterations in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) as individuals age, highlighting changes in nerve fibers, signal transmission, muscle strength, and sensory discrimination. The study also examines the brain's structural and functional evolution with age, particularly in the hippocampus and frontal lobe, and the resultant effects on cognitive abilities. It discusses the concept of brain resistance and resilience in the context of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that certain individuals show a heightened ability to withstand or adapt to neurological pathologies. Investigating various lifestyle factors, the hypothesis presented is that an active lifestyle and specific activities, including musical engagement and video game training, can mitigate age-related cognitive decline. The study finds that musical activities improve mood, memory, and quality of life in people with dementia, while customized video games enhance multitasking abilities and cognitive control in older adults. However, mindfulness-based interventions, such as stress reduction and exercise, did not show significant improvement in cognitive functions in older adults. Intriguingly, cognitive abilities are impacted differently by age, with certain functions like vocabulary improving, while others such as memory and processing speed decline. The study also contrasts brain aging in humans with chimpanzees, revealing significant differences in brain structure changes over the lifespan, likely due to longer human lifespans. This research underscores the complex interplay of genetic, lifestyle, health, and intervention factors in aging and emphasizes the importance of tailored interventions such as using music therapy, video games, and life style changes to preserve neurological and cognitive health in older adults.

Cognitive activity, cognitive function, and neurological blood biomarkers

AbstractBackgroundMore frequent engagement in cognitive activity is associated with better cognitive function in older adults, but the mechanism of action is not fully understood. Debate remains whether increased cognitive activity provides a meaningful benefit for cognitive health or if decreased cognitive activity represents a prodrome of cognitive impairment. Neurological biomarkers provide a novel way to examine this relationship in the context of cognitive aging.MethodsWe examined the association of cognitive activity, cognitive function, and concentrations of three biomarkers in community‐dwelling participants of a longitudinal, population‐based study. Cognitive activity was measured at baseline by asking participants to rate the frequency of 7 activities: 1) Viewing television, 2) Listening to the radio, 3) Visiting a museum, 4) Playing games, such as cards, checkers, crosswords, or other puzzles or games, 5) Reading books, 6) Reading magazines, and 7) Reading newspapers. Cognitive function was measured with a battery of four tests (Mini‐Mental State Examination, Digit Symbol Test, and the immediate and delayed recall of the East Boston Test) averaged into a composite score. At baseline, we evaluated the concentration of total tau (tau), neurofilament light (NfL), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP).ResultsThe study sample comprised 1,168 older participants, primarily non‐Hispanic Blacks (60%) and women (63%). At baseline, they were an average of 77 years old with 12.6 years of education. Mixed‐effects models showed that cognitive activity was associated with better cognitive functioning at baseline and over time. These relationships remained after each biomarker was added to the model. Over an average of 6.4 years of follow‐up, cognitive activity was associated with cognitive decline in the model with tau (estimate = 0.0123; p‐value = 0.03) and was mildly attenuated in the models with NfL, (estimate = 0.0110; p‐value = 0.06), and GFAP (estimate = 0.0111; p‐value = 0.06). Biomarkers did not modify the association between cognitive activity and cognitive function over time.ConclusionThe benefits of cognitive activity on cognition appear to be independent of biomarkers: tau, NfL, and GFAP. More frequent cognitive activity may benefit the cognitive health of older adults with a wide range of potential disease risk and presentations.

Relationship between depressive symptoms and cognitive function in the U.S. POINTER study

AbstractBackgroundDepressive symptoms play an important role in cognitive health of older adults, yet the exact nature of their influence has not been well established. There is strong evidence that depressive symptoms are independently associated with cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. Depressive symptoms have also been associated with cognitive dysfunction in the absence of dementia.MethodsWe examined the association of depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning in U.S. POINTER participants at baseline. U.S. POINTER is a large multi‐site, 2‐year study testing the impact of interventions on cognition in 2000 older adults at risk for cognitive decline. This analysis included 1,814 study participants (aged 60‐79). Exclusion criteria included major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. We measured cognition with the Neuropsychological Test Battery modified for U.S. POINTER, or PmNTB. The battery provides a global composite score and three domain‐specific composite scores for episodic memory, executive function, and processing speed. Depression was measured with the 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Simple linear regression models were run to evaluate the relationship between cognitive function and GDS after controlling for age, sex, education, race, ethnicity, and site. In secondary analyses, simple linear regression models were used to evaluate the relationship between cognitive functioning and GDS, using a median split (0‐1, 2+) and the conventional/clinical GDS cut‐off of 4 (0‐4 vs 5+).ResultsWe found greater endorsement of depressive symptoms was not associated with the global composite score, episodic memory, or executive function. However, higher GDS scores were associated with slower processing speed (estimate = ‐0.023; 95% CI: ‐0.05, 0.00, p‐value = 0.05). In secondary analyses using the GDS median split, the association between GDS and processing speed was mildly attenuated (p‐value = 0.06) and the association between GDS and executive function became marginally associated (p‐value = 0.06). When using conventional GDS clinical cut‐offs, no associations between cognitive function and GDS were found.ConclusionAt baseline, subclinical depressive symptoms may be associated with decreased processing speed and executive function in U.S. POINTER participants.

Are changes in muscular strength following head‐down bed rest independently associated with improved cognitive function in older adults? A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial

AbstractBackgroundPhysical inactivity is common among older adults and is a risk factor for cognitive decline. Even a brief period of physical inactivity, such as bed rest due to hospitalization, in older adults has significant negative impacts. Exercise is strategy to counter the negative effects of physical inactivity. Exercise‐induced improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with improved cognitive function. Less is known regarding the contribution of exercise‐induced changes in muscle strength to changes in cognitive function. Thus, we aimed to examine the independent contribution of: 1) change in cardiorespiratory fitness; and 2) change in peak muscle torque of the lower extremity to changes in cognitive function in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of head‐down bed rest (HDBR) vs. HDBR with exercise in healthy older adults.MethodAn analysis of a non‐blinded, parallel‐group, RCT of 22 healthy older adults (11 males and 11 females) aged 55‐65 years. Participants were randomized to: 1) 14 days of 6° HDBR (CON); or 2) HDBR with daily resistance and aerobic exercise training (EX). Outcome measures were taken at baseline and HDBR completion. The Flanker Inhibitory Control and Attention Task measured executive function. Physical fitness measures included: 1) maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max) using a bicycle ergometry test; and 2) knee extension isokinetic muscular strength (KE) using a Biodex dynamometer. We performed two separate multiple linear regressions to determine whether following 14 days of HDBR: 1) VO2max was associated with Flanker score, after accounting for ΔKE; and 2) KE was associated with Flanker score, after accounting for ΔVO2max. Each model was also adjusted for baseline Flanker score and the baseline physical fitness measure of interest.ResultAt baseline, average Flanker t‐score was 48.33, mean VO2max was 32.527 ml/kg/min, and knee extension strength was 64.472 Nm. VO2max at follow‐up was not significantly associated with Flanker performance (b = 0.232 ± 0.716; p = 0.635; R2 adj. = 0.285). However, greater KE strength was significantly associated with better Flanker performance (b = 2.023 ± 0.389; p = 0.043; R2 adj. = 0.633) at HDBR completion.ConclusionThe maintenance of muscle strength even during brief periods of physical inactivity appears to be critical for cognitive health in older adults.

Abstract 13062: Association Between Blood Pressure Levels and Cognitive Decline in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Prospective Analysis of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study

Background: The association between blood pressure (BP) and the risk of cognitive impairment in older adults is limited. It is unclear at which thresholds BP increases the risk of cognitive decline. We aimed to investigate the association between BP and hypertension treatment status with cognitive decline in older adults. Methods: This study used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Participants were categorized into five groups according to their visit measures of BP: 1) BP &lt;120/80 mm Hg; 2) systolic BP (SBP) 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic BP (DBP) &lt;80 mmHg; 3) BP ≥130/80 and &lt;140/90 mmHg; 4) BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg; 5) and participants with anti-hypertensive medication treatment regardless of their BP levels. The global cognitive Z score was calculated as the average score of episodic memory and mental intactness. Linear mixed models were used to assess the longitudinal association between the BP group, SBP, pulse pressure (PP), and cognitive decline. Results: A total of 11,671 participants from CHARLS were included (47.3% men and mean age 58.6 ± 9.0 years). After adjusting for potential confounders, participants with BP ≥ 140/90 mm Hg but no anti-hypertensive medication were independently associated with accelerated cognitive decline ( β = -0.020, 95% CI -0.028 to -0.012; P &lt;0.001). This trend was not significant for participants on anti-hypertensive treatment regardless of their BP levels. Elevated SBP and PP were found to be independently associated with accelerated cognitive decline ( P &lt; 0.001 for both). However, participants on anti-hypertensive treatment for pre-existing hypertension, but with controlled SBP &lt; 140 mm Hg and PP &lt; 70 mm Hg did not have a significantly increased risk of cognitive decline. Conclusions: Uncontrolled hypertension was associated with subsequent cognitive decline. Effectively controlling BP with anti-hypertensive treatment can preserve cognitive health in older adults.

Physical Activity and Its Prophylactic Effects on Cognition and Dementia

The dynamics of aging are not identical for all individuals, and certain lifestyle factors are likely to modulate its effects. Among these factors, the regular practice of physical activity is now the subject of increasing research. Many epidemiological, cross-sectional, and interventional studies present a convincing body of evidence in favor of the prophylactic effect of regular physical activity on brain and cognitive health in older adults. Various cognitive functions such as information processing speed, executive functions, or declarative memory appear to function more efficiently under the effect of a 6-month program combining 45 minutes of moderate-to-high-intensity aerobic physical exercise (sustained walking, jogging) and strength training three or more times a week.

Experiencing daily negative aging stereotypes and real-life cognitive functioning in older adults: A diary study.

Older adults may be confronted with a variety of negative aging stereotypes (e.g., "forgetful," "physically frail," and "lonely") almost every day. While experimental studies have demonstrated the impact of negative aging stereotypes on older adults' cognitive performance, the relationship between multiple negative aging stereotype experiences and cognitive functioning in older people's daily lives is largely unknown. Using a 1-week daily diary study approach, the present studies examined the association between experiencing daily negative aging stereotypes and real-life cognitive functioning and the mediating role of daily negative affect. We also examined whether these associations differed in response to negative aging stereotype diversity, which refers to the breadth and evenness of negative aging stereotypes that older adults experience in 1 week. In Study 1 (n = 50), we explored the negative aging stereotypes that older adults often experience in their daily lives. These stereotypes can be seen as a measure of daily stereotype experiences. Then in Study 2, 100 older adults reported their everyday experiences of negative aging stereotypes, positive or negative affect, and cognitive failures for 1 week. The results showed that the more negative aging stereotype experiences older adults had in 1 day, the more cognitive failures occurred that day and that daily negative affect mediated this association. Further, the direct and indirect relationships between daily negative aging stereotype experiences and daily cognitive failures were significant in older adults with high negative aging stereotype diversity but not in those with low negative aging stereotype diversity. This study provides new insights for studies on aging stereotypes threat and offers theoretical guidance for future interventions for cognitive health in older adults and, in turn, contributes to promoting healthy aging in older adults. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

59 An Examination of the Moderating Effect of Self-Efficacy on the Association Between Health Literacy and Healthy Activity Engagement in Older Adults

Objective:Engagement in activities that promote overall brain health and well-being is often a key step in reducing risks to cognitive health in older adults. Given that higher health literacy has been found to be associated with healthier lifestyles, it is unsurprising that it has been the focus of many studies and programs aimed at improving the health outcomes of older adults. An equally important factor to consider when it comes to such efforts is the role of moderating variables in the relationship between health literacy and engagement in healthy behaviors. The present study examined the moderating effect of self-efficacy, a variable that has been shown to be positively associated with both health literacy and health behaviors. We hypothesized that increased self-efficacy will strengthen the relationship between health literacy and healthy activity engagement in a sample of community-living older adults.Participants and Methods:Forty-nine older adults (age: M = 64.35, SD = 8.00; education: M = 16.39, SD = 2.37; 87.76% female) completed a health literacy measure (Newest Vital Sign; NVS), a self-efficacy questionnaire (General Self-Efficacy Scale; GSE), and a lifestyle behaviors questionnaire (Healthy Aging Activity Engagement Scale; HAAE). The NVS is a performance-based measure in which participants are asked to interpret the verbal and numerical information of a nutrition label to make health-related decisions. The GSE is a self-report measure that evaluates one’s belief in their ability to handle challenges, solve problems, and accomplish goals. The HAAE is a self-report measure that assesses one’s engagement in healthy activities across multiple health domains.Results:To examine whether self-efficacy moderates the relationship between health literacy and healthy activity engagement, a moderation analysis was conducted using Hayes’ PROCESS macro for SPSS with age and education included in the model as covariates. The results revealed no significant interaction between health literacy and self-efficacy, b = 0.23, p = .59, 95% CI [-0.60 to 1.05].Conclusions:Contrary to expectations, in the present sample, the degree of self-efficacy was not a condition under which level of health literacy exerted its influence on healthy activity engagement in older adults. Future studies with larger and more nationally representative samples are needed to explore self-efficacy and other potential moderating factors in order to identify individual characteristics that support older adults’ adoption and engagement in health-promoting behaviors.

S15-1 Health-enhancing physical activity: does an active body make an active brain?

Abstract The cognitive health of older adults has become an increasingly important topic as the world's population continues to age. This symposium discusses the latest research and best practices for promoting and maintaining cognitive health in older adults, with an emphasis on the role of physical activity. Four expert presentations will delve into various aspects of this complex topic. The first presentation will provide a bibliometric analysis of the scientific literature about the link between lifestyle and cognition. The second presentation will present cross-sectional findings on the relationship between 24-hour movement behaviours and cognition in adults aged 55 years and above. The third presentation will present the effects and process evaluation of a cognitively enriched walking program for older adults, focusing on the challenges of research in real-life settings. The final presentation will highlight the impact of a combined physical and cognitive activity program on executive function and walking speed in adults aged 70-85 years. The bibliometric analysis and cross-sectional findings will provide a broad overview of the current state of research in this area, while the intervention studies will offer practical insights into the design and implementation of physical activity programs that target cognitive health in older adults. This symposium is a valuable opportunity for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers to learn about the latest developments in this field and discuss the future direction of research and policy.