Physical Activity and Cognitive Function in Older Adults: The Mediating Effect of Depressive Symptoms

Abstract

Depressive symptoms and social networks may influence the relationship between physical activity and cognition. Using structural equation modeling, depressive symptoms and social networks were examined as mediators between physical activity and cognition in community-dwelling older adults (N = 122), with a range of cognitive abilities (e.g., normal, mild cognitive impairment). The model included age, physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleeping, social networks, depressive symptoms, and cognitive function. A path was observed between physical activity, depressive symptoms, and cognition; specifically, those who were more physically active experienced less depression and better cognitive functioning. No relationship between social networks and cognition was found. This model fits the data well (goodness-of-fit index = .93, adjusted goodness-of-fit index = .90, root mean square error of approximation = .06). Results suggest that physical activity may mitigate depressive symptoms, with beneficial effects on cognitive functioning in both those with and without mild cognitive impairment. Suggestions for managing depression and improving cognitive functioning are provided.

Cognitive Functioning of Geriatric Patients: Is Hypovitaminosis D the Next Marker of Cognitive Dysfunction and Dementia?

“…Like vitamin D status, higher physical activity promotes cognitive functioning in older adults [ 62 ]. A very recent study by Lee et al [ 63 ] has revealed that impaired TUG performance was associated with increased risk of all causes of dementia, which remains in line with our results.…”

Midlife Physical Activity, Psychological Distress, and Dementia Risk: The HUNT Study

“…However, PA and exercise have been found to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in both clinical [15,16] and non-clinical populations [17]. Studies suggest a link between PA, cognitive function, and depressive symptoms [18,19], indicating that PA may improve cognitive function among individuals suffering from depression [18] or with high levels of depressive symptoms [19]. A large prospective study found that both low and high intensity leisure-time PA reduces the risk of dementia-related mortality among individuals with and without distress [20].…”

Physical activity and depression: a large cross‐sectional, population‐based study across 36 low‐ and middle‐income countries

“…important to increase physical activity in people from LMICs Cognitive impairment also appears to influence physical activity participation among people with depression(53), and increasing physical activity might help improve both of these conditions(54,55). Since cognitive impairment and depression often coexist(56), additional support may be required to encourage people with coexisting depression and cognitive impairment to become more active.Overcoming all of these potential barriers may be important for increasing physical activity in LMICs among people with depression.…”