Physical activity and cognitive functions in older people: a systematic review of the last 5 years

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v0i39.79960

Keywords:

dementia, cognition, exercise, quality of life, adulthood

Abstract

Abstract. Physical activity (PA) positively affects people's health at any age, and according to the results of different studies on the cognitive health of older people, the benefits are more evident. For this reason, a systematic review of the scientific literature addressing the effects of PA on the cognitive functions (CF) of older people has been conducted. Four databases were consulted to locate relevant literature: Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct and Pub Med, and the Scholar Google search engine. After applying the selection criteria, 31 articles were left, which were analyzed in terms of a) country, number of individuals and age, b) variables, and c) research approach, duration and results. In general, PA improves several dimensions of cognitive functions of older people, where genetic and environmental factors that have to do with the individual's lifestyle are mediated. Types of PA behave differently in terms of the dimension of cognitive function they improve. The determination of biochemical markers (BDNF, dopamine, amyloid peptide β, gamma gap), nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMR) and changes in the electrical activity of the brain support the hypothesis that PA produces changes in brain shape and activity, without significant changes in behavior observed and measurable by standardized tests of mental health.

Author Biography

Óscar Romero-Ramos, UNIVERSIDAD DE MALAGA

Profesor Titular Universidad de Málaga, Departamento de Didáctica de las Lenguas, las Artes y el Deporte

Published

2021-01-01

How to Cite

Romero Ramos, N., Romero-Ramos, Óscar, & González Suárez, A. J. (2021). Physical activity and cognitive functions in older people: a systematic review of the last 5 years. Retos, 39, 1017–1023. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v0i39.79960

Issue

Section

Monographic: Physical and sports activity in older people. Castillo-Rodríguez

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