


Volume 23 No 1 (2025)
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The Impact of Physical Activity on Cognitive Function and the Risk of Dementia in Older Adults
Dr Charushila Rukadikar, Dr Kishan DineshbhaiRabadiya, Dr Kumarsinh Ramjibhai Thakor, Dr Moghi Chaudhari
Abstract
Background
Physical activity is increasingly recognized as a modifiable factor influencing cognitive function and reducing the risk of dementia in older adults. This study aimed to evaluate the association between varying levels of physical activity and cognitive performance while assessing its impact on dementia risk.
Materials and Methods
A prospective cohort study was conducted with 200 older adults aged 60–80 years, recruited from urban and rural settings. Participants were stratified into three groups based on their physical activity levels: low, moderate, and high, assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Cognitive function was evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Dementia risk was assessed using a validated risk score algorithm. Data collection spanned 12 months, with baseline and follow-up assessments. Statistical analysis included ANOVA for group comparisons and logistic regression to determine the association between physical activity and dementia risk.
Results
At baseline, the mean MMSE score was significantly higher in the high physical activity group (28.4 ± 1.2) compared to the moderate (26.7 ± 1.6) and low (24.3 ± 2.1) activity groups (p < 0.01). Over 12 months, participants with high physical activity showed a 15% improvement in MoCA scores, while the low activity group demonstrated a 5% decline. Logistic regression revealed that higher physical activity levels were associated with a 40% reduced risk of dementia (odds ratio: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.4–0.8; p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Regular physical activity is significantly associated with enhanced cognitive function and a reduced risk of dementia in older adults. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating physical activity into public health strategies targeting aging populations.
Keywords
Physical activity, cognitive function, dementia, older adults, aging, cognitive decline, public health strategies.
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