A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that higher cardiorespiratory fitness in older adults is strongly linked to better cognitive abilities, even in those at higher risk of cognitive decline due to aging or genetics.
This connection holds true regardless of age or the presence of the APOE4 gene, which is associated with an increased risk of dementia.
Cardiorespiratory fitness, a measure of aerobic capacity, reflects how efficiently the body uses oxygen during exercise. It can be improved with regular aerobic activities like walking, jogging, or cycling.
While previous research has shown that aerobic fitness reduces the risk of dementia, this study aimed to uncover how it affects different aspects of thinking and memory.
The research included 648 cognitively healthy adults aged 65–80, with an average age of 69. Most participants (71%) were women, and many had higher education levels, with an average of 16 years of schooling.
Cardiorespiratory fitness was measured through a VO2 max test, which determines the maximum amount of oxygen a person can use during exercise. Cognitive abilities were assessed using a series of validated tests over two days, targeting five areas:
- Processing speed – how quickly someone can perform simple mental tasks.
- Working memory – the ability to hold and use information in the short term.
- Visuospatial processing – skills involved in understanding spatial relationships.
- Episodic memory – recalling personal experiences.
- Executive function/attentional control – planning, organizing, and focusing attention.
The average VO2 max among participants was 21.68 ml/kg/min, below the range considered good for their age group. Despite this, those with higher cardiorespiratory fitness consistently scored better across all five cognitive areas, regardless of age or genetic risk factors like carrying the APOE4 gene.
Interestingly, the fitness-cognition link was especially strong in certain groups. Women, participants with fewer years of education, and those taking beta-blockers (medications for heart conditions) showed greater benefits in processing speed and executive function.
These findings suggest that fitness may have an even bigger impact on cognitive health in individuals with specific characteristics or challenges.
While the study provides valuable insights, it is observational, meaning it cannot prove that better fitness directly causes improved cognition.
Other factors may contribute, and the study focused on participants who were relatively inactive, limiting the range of fitness levels observed. Additionally, some cognitive abilities, such as language skills, were not assessed.
The researchers propose several ways in which aerobic fitness might benefit the brain. Improved blood flow, reduced oxidative stress, and the creation of new neural connections are just a few mechanisms.
Aerobic exercise may also stimulate the growth of neurons, enhance neurotransmitter systems, and improve the structure of brain tissue. Beyond physical changes, fitness might influence cognitive health by boosting mood, reducing fatigue, and improving sleep.
The study concludes that cardiorespiratory fitness is a key factor in preserving cognitive abilities in older adults. The findings emphasize the importance of individualized exercise programs to enhance aerobic fitness and optimize brain health as people age.
Whether through brisk walks, swimming, or other aerobic activities, staying physically active could be a simple yet powerful tool for maintaining mental sharpness in later years.
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The research findings can be found in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
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