In a new study, researchers found a strong link between handgrip strength, walking speed, and cognition, indicating how improved physical health could boost elderly minds.
The research was conducted by a team at Barwon Health.
In the study, the team aimed to identify the risk factors—such as changes in muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance—for developing sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass, strength, and function with advancing age) across the lifespan.
This testing involves the Geelong Osteoporosis Study (GOS) which began in the early 1990s, gathering adult participants from the electoral roll in the Barwon Statistical Division.
During recent follow-up testing, the researchers also measured cognitive function through a computer-based program, in tandem with physical health evaluations.
The computer-based testing looked at cognitive health signifiers to examine psychomotor function, attention, visual learning and working memory, at the click of a mouse.
The result from a study of men over 60 showed a strong link between handgrip strength and cognition, in particular psychomotor function.
Similarly, usual walking speed, which is indicative of physical function, was linked to psychomotor function, attention, and overall cognition.
In contrast, no association was found between muscle mass and cognitive function.
This research shows that researchers need to think more about how elderly people can boost their quality of life through something as simple as diet or maintaining physical health.
The parallel decline in cognitive function and loss of muscle strength places elderly people at increased risk of personal injury, poor mobility, and loss of independence.
One author of the study is Ph.D. student Ms Sophia Sui.
The study is published in Scientific Reports.
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