- Choose, read and briefly summarize one scientific journal article relevant to aging and cognition.
Online link:
APA Citation: Klimova, B., & Dostalova, R. (2020, June 16). The Impact of Physical Activities on Cognitive Performance among Healthy Older Individuals. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci10060377
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Title: The Impact of Physical Activities on Cognitive Performance among Healthy Older Individuals
Introduction:
This scientific journal article explores the connection between physical activities and cognitive performance in healthy older individuals. Aging is often associated with cognitive decline, which can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life. Therefore, understanding the factors that influence cognitive function in older adults is imperative. This article aims to examine the impact of engaging in physical activities on cognitive performance, providing valuable insights for promoting healthy aging.
Summary:
This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of previous research articles to investigate the relationship between physical activities and cognitive performance in healthy older individuals. The authors focused on studies that involved participants aged 60 years and above and excluded studies that included individuals with cognitive impairments or dementia.
The analysis revealed a significant positive effect of physical activities on cognitive performance among healthy older individuals. The findings indicated that engaging in regular physical activities, such as aerobic exercises, resistance training, and balance activities, could improve various cognitive domains, including attention, processing speed, memory, and executive function.
Moreover, the researchers found that combining different types of physical activities, such as aerobic exercise and strength training, yielded superior cognitive outcomes compared to engaging in a single type of activity alone. Furthermore, moderate-intensity exercises seemed to have a more substantial impact on cognitive function than low-intensity exercises.
The authors suggested several potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between physical activities and cognitive performance. These mechanisms include increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, improved cardiovascular health, enhanced neuroplasticity, and reduced inflammation.
Overall, this study highlights the significant positive influence of physical activities on cognitive performance in healthy older individuals. Engaging in regular exercise, particularly a combination of aerobic exercises, resistance training, and balance activities, can lead to improvements in various cognitive domains and promote healthy aging. These findings emphasize the importance of incorporating physical activities into lifestyle interventions and health promotion strategies for older adults.
Reference:
Klimova, B., & Dostalova, R. (2020). The Impact of Physical Activities on Cognitive Performance among Healthy Older Individuals. Brain Sciences, 10(6), 377.
