Exploring the Associations between Functional Capacity, Cognitive Function and Well-Being in Older Adults

Abstract

Background: The present study aimed to explore the associations between functional capacity and global cognition, executive function and well-being in older adults. Methods: Ninety-seven older adults (age 80.6 ± 8.2 years) were examined for global cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination), executive function (symbol cancellation test), functional capacity (sit-to-stand tests, 6 min walk test, timed up-and-go test and handgrip strength test) and well-being (quality of life, fatigue levels, sleep quality and daily sleepiness). Adjusted partial correlations were computed to examine the associations between variables. Mediation analyses were conducted to evaluate whether functional capacity would mediate the relationships between age and cognitive or executive function. Results: Greater levels of functional capacity were associated with better performance in cognitive and executive function tests (p < 0.05). Mediation analyses revealed that functional capacity partially mediated the effects of age on global cognition and executive function (indirect effect: β = −0.11, 95% CI = −0.20 to −0.03; β = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.13 to 0.57, respectively). Increased levels of functional capacity were also associated with higher quality of life (p < 0.05, r = 0.32 to 0.41), lower fatigue levels (p < 0.05, r = 0.23 to 0.37), and better sleep quality (p < 0.05, r = 0.23 to 0.24). Conclusions: Functional capacity can mediate the effects of age on global cognition and executive function in older adults and greater levels of functional capacity are associated with improved quality of life, better sleep quality, and lower fatigue levels.

A Comparison of the Effect of Facemasks on Perceived Breathability and Air Quality during Daily Activities and Indoor Exercises

“…Other potential factors may also affect PC, PB, and PAQ, e.g., perception of comfort and breathability may vary according to age, as younger individuals have more residual lung volume and lung capacities than elder adults [40]. For perceiving comfort and breathability, all individuals should have the same or a similar functional capacity of the parietal cortex which is an area of the brain responsible for sensory perception and integration, including the management of taste, hearing, sight, touch, and smell [41]. Its functional capacity changes due to age [41].…”

“…For perceiving comfort and breathability, all individuals should have the same or a similar functional capacity of the parietal cortex which is an area of the brain responsible for sensory perception and integration, including the management of taste, hearing, sight, touch, and smell [41]. Its functional capacity changes due to age [41]. Perception is also strongly influenced by gender [42].…”

Effects of Physical Activity on Physical Fitness and Functional Ability in Older Adults

“…It was found that there is a gradual increase of fall by 35% to 40% after the age of 60 years ( World Health Organization, 2007 ). Physical activity enhances balance and strength of the older adults resulting in the prevention of falls and improving physical function and quality of life of the older adults ( Ferreira et al, 2012 ; Stavrinou et al, 2022 ; Wannamethee & Atkins, 2019 ; World Health Organization, 2007 ). Studies on improving balance, strength and endurance ( Bootsman et al, 2018 ; Ferreira et al., 2012 ; Zouita et al., 2020 ), relieving pain and enhancing functional mobility ( Tse et al, 2011 , 2013 ), and preventing frailty ( Mesquita et al, 2015 ; Trombetti et al., 2016 ) in old age have shown that physical activity is positively associated with functional health.…”

“…Population aging is a worldwide phenomenon; the global share of older adults (aged 60 years or over) increased from 9.2% in 1990 to 11.7% in 2013 and will continue to grow, reaching to 21.1% by 2050 (United Nations, 2022). Physical activity is considered as a key to successful and healthy aging (Hallal et al, 2012; World Health Organization, 2022) because regular physical activity plays a significant role in enhancing physical fitness, functional ability and quality of life in old age (Blewitt & Chockalingam, 2017; Stavrinou et al, 2022; Tyndall et al, 2018). Age-related physical decline and corresponding loss of functional capacity are related to the loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia), decrease of aerobic capacity and joint range motion, changes in the sensory system, and consequently would reduce mobility and fitness (Elam et al, 2021; Nelson et al, 2007).…”

Physical and cognitive function to explain the quality of life among older adults with cognitive impairment: Exploring cognitive function as a mediator

“…While aerobic exercise plus resistance training improved physical function and balance, leading to improved quality of life [20], 6-month aerobic exercise also improved cognitive function in older adults with MCI [21]. Greater levels of physical function (mobility, exibility, and grip strength) were associated with better cognitive and executive function performance and improved quality of life in older adults [22]. The association of physical and cognitive function should be considered when designing lifestyle interventions to improve QOL in this population.…”