The Relationship between Leisure Time Physical Activity and Cognitive Function in Older Americans.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the correlation between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and cognitive function in older adults.

METHODS

We conducted an analysis of 2,657 participants (aged ≥60 years) from the cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2011-2014. Multiple logistic regression and linear regression analyses were employed to explore the associations between leisure-time physical activity and cognitive function.

RESULTS

Significant correlations were observed between LTPA duration and frequency with Animal Fluency Test (AF) and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) scores. Engaging in leisure-time physical activity 1-4 times per week was associated with a 33%((OR) 0.67, (CI) 0.48-0.92) reduced risk of memory decline compared to non-active individuals. An inverted U-shaped relationship was observed between LTPA duration and AF/DSST and a U-shaped relationship between LTPA frequency and the risk of memory decline.

CONCLUSION

Encouraging older adults to participate in leisure activities 3-4 times per week may help protect cognitive function.