1
|
Ziv G, Levin O, Netz Y. Selecting an appropriate control group for studying the effects of exercise on cognitive performance. PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2024; 72:102602. [PMID: 38280537 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2024.102602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Differences in expectations between experimental and control groups can influence the outcomes of exercise interventions, emphasizing the need to match expectations across study groups. This online study examined whether the expectations to improve the performance of different cognitive tasks differ between various activities commonly used in research on the effects of exercise and cognitive function. Two hundred and five middle-aged adults performed two reaction-time tasks and one memory task. They were then asked to rate, on a 1-5 Likert scale, their expectations to improve performance in those tasks should they engage in six types of activities for three months: brisk walking, resistance exercise, stretching and balance exercises, watching videos with lectures on art, history, and science, a program of relaxation techniques, and yoga/tai chi/meditation. Results revealed that the highest expectations for improvement were associated with relaxation techniques and yoga/tai chi/meditation. Some activities, such as brisk walking and stretch and balance exercises, shared similar expectations. Previous knowledge of the possible beneficial effects of exercise on cognitive performance also led to higher expectations. To establish causal relationships, researchers should strive to use activities that share similar expectations to improve performance for the experimental and control groups. The findings of this study provide such activity pairs. Finally, researchers should also try to match participants with and without prior knowledge of the benefits of exercise to cognitive function between experimental and control groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gal Ziv
- Levinsky-Wingate Academic College - Wingate Campus, Netanya, Israel.
| | - Oron Levin
- Movement Control & Neuroplasticity Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Yael Netz
- Levinsky-Wingate Academic College - Wingate Campus, Netanya, Israel; Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen YL, Chang CC, Lin MP, Lin CC, Chen PY, Juan CH. Association between physical activity, body composition, and cognitive performance among female office workers. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2024; 286:67-87. [PMID: 38876579 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2024.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Regular physical activity can potentially prevent cognitive decline. While most studies focused on the general decline of the elderly and child and adolescent population, aging is a gradual process and cognitive decline can commence in middle age. Other than the middle-aged working population, gender-specific nuances are another overlooked area regarding the relationship between physical activity and cognitive performance. Therefore, this study examines the associations and benefits of maintaining regular physical activity habits with cognitive function and body composition in middle-aged female office workers. The results show that middle-aged females exhibited age-related declines in working memory, while no significant age-related changes are observed in reaction time and executive function. However, the regular exercise group demonstrates the ability to maintain their cognitive performance across age, unlike the sedentary group, who experiences declines in reaction time and executive function with age. Our findings highlight the significant impact of age on specific cognitive functions in middle-aged females and the positive influence of regular exercise on cognitive performance. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the potential of "the Brain Gym" App for efficient cognitive function assessment. The findings underscore the importance of regular exercise for cognitive well-being in middle-aged females and provide valuable insights into the relationship between body composition and cognitive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Lun Chen
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan; Cognitive Intelligence and Precision Healthcare Research Center, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan.
| | - Che-Chien Chang
- Cognitive Intelligence and Precision Healthcare Research Center, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan; Office of Physical Education, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Ping Lin
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan; Cognitive Intelligence and Precision Healthcare Research Center, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chi Lin
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yu Chen
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hung Juan
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan; Cognitive Intelligence and Precision Healthcare Research Center, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Silveira-Rodrigues JG, Campos BT, de Lima AT, Ogando PHM, Gomes CB, Gomes PF, Aleixo IMS, Soares DD. Acute bouts of aerobic and resistance exercise similarly alter inhibitory control and response time while inversely modifying plasma BDNF concentrations in middle-aged and older adults with type 2 diabetes. Exp Brain Res 2023; 241:1173-1183. [PMID: 36912948 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-023-06588-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Impairments in several domains of cognitive functions are observed in people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), often accompanied by low Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations. Although aerobic and resistance exercise enhances cognitive functions and raises BDNF concentrations in several populations, it remained uncertain in T2DM subjects. This study compared the effects of a single bout of aerobic (AER, 40 min of treadmill walk at 90-95% of the maximum walk speed) or resistance (RES, 3 × 10 repetitions in eight exercises at 70% of 10-RM) exercise on specific cognitive domain performance and plasma BDNF concentrations of physically active T2DM subjects. Eleven T2DM subjects (9 women/2 men; 63 ± 7 years) performed two counterbalanced trials on non-consecutive days. Stroop Color and Word (SCW) task [assessing the attention (congruent condition) and inhibitory control (incongruent condition)], Visual response time (assessing the response time), and blood collection (for plasma BDNF concentrations) were performed pre and post-exercise sessions. With distinct magnitude, both AER and RES improved the incongruent-SCW (d = - 0.26 vs. - 0.43 in AER and RES, respectively; p < 0.05), RT(best) (d = - 0.31 vs. - 0.52, p < 0.05), and RT(1-5) (d = - 0.64 vs. - 0.21, p < 0.05). The congruent-SCW and RT(6-10) were not statistically different. Plasma BDNF concentrations were elevated 11% in AER (d = 0.30) but decreased by 15% in RES (d = - 0.43). A single session of aerobic or resistance exercise similarly improved the inhibitory control and response time of physically active T2DM subjects. Nevertheless, aerobic and resistance exercise sessions induced an opposite clinical effect in plasma BDNF concentrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João G Silveira-Rodrigues
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
- Movement Laboratory, Medicine School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Bruno T Campos
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - André T de Lima
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Pedro H M Ogando
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
- Movement Laboratory, Medicine School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Camila B Gomes
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Patrícia F Gomes
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Ivana M S Aleixo
- Movement Laboratory, Medicine School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Danusa D Soares
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Scharf C, Tilp M. Twelve Weeks of Web-Based Low to Moderate Physical Activity Breaks with Coordinative Exercises at the Workplace Increase Motor Skills but Not Motor Abilities in Office Workers-A Randomised Controlled Pilot Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2193. [PMID: 36767561 PMCID: PMC9915999 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Integrating physical activity interventions at the workplace can have positive effects on the employees' health. This study aimed to evaluate a physical activity break with coordinative exercises (PAB) including juggling and balance tasks and to assess its effects on motor abilities. Thirty-two university employees were randomly allocated to an intervention (IG:20) or a control (CG:12) group. The IG participated two times per week for 12 weeks in a PAB with a duration of 15 to 20 min. We measured the unimanual, bimanual finger, and hand dexterity with the Purdue Pegboard Test, the reaction time with the Fall Stick Test, and the dynamic balance with the Y Balance Test. Juggling performance was assessed by measuring the time(s) of performing a three-ball-cascade. Furthermore, an evaluation of the PAB was executed. Participants in the IG improved their juggling performance after six and twelve weeks. These increases were significantly different compared to the CG. However, no other parameters changed significantly. The evaluation showed that the PAB was enjoyable and led to subjective improvements in the participants health and working routine. To conclude, PAB can lead to improvements in juggling performance, subjective health, and the working routine.
Collapse
|
5
|
Liu J, Taneepanichskul S, Zhang B, Xenos P. The Effect of a Single Bout of Chinese Archery on Core Executive Functions in Preadolescent Children in Shanghai. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1415. [PMID: 36674178 PMCID: PMC9859288 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent literature has demonstrated that acute physical activity benefits the transfer of executive functions. However, further studies indicated the type of variability in the effect of physical activity on executive functions. Therefore, this study initially explored the effect of a single bout of Chinese archery on subdomains of core EFs in preadolescent children; Method: Eligible participants were allocated either an intervention group (n = 36) or a control group (n = 36). The subjects in the intervention group received a 45-min Chinese archery session. The primary outcomes were the performance of core EFs (inhibition control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility) in preadolescent children, assessed with psychological paradigms (Fish Flanker Task, N-Back Task, and DCCS (Border version), respectively). Paired t-test and ANCOVA were used to analyze the mean difference in the performance of core EFs within and between subjects, respectively; Results: Considering reaction time and accuracy, we explored the impressive performance in three cognitive tasks with acute Chinese archery; Conclusion: The finding suggests that a single bout of Chinese archery benefited three subdomains of core EFs in healthy preadolescent children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianjun Liu
- School of Physical Education & Health, Shanghai University of International Business and Economics, Shanghai 201620, China
- College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | | | - Bo Zhang
- School of Physical Education & Health, Shanghai University of International Business and Economics, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Peter Xenos
- Capitol University Research and Extension Office (CUREXO), Capitol University, Cagayan de Oro City 9000, Philippines
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Borji R, Affes S, Zarrouk N, Sahli S, Rebai H. Acute effects of aerobic versus resistance exercises on cognitive function in individuals with intellectual disability. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2022; 36:106-115. [PMID: 36216517 DOI: 10.1111/jar.13039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study compared the acute effects of aerobic (AE) and resistance (RE) exercise on reaction time (RT) and working memory (WM) in individuals with intellectual disability. METHODS RT tests and Corsi test for WM were performed before and after three intervention sessions: AE, RE, or control session consisting on watching video. RESULTS The RT values decreased significantly (p < .001) after both of AE and RE with higher extend after the RE but did not vary following the control session. Corsi scores increased significantly (p < .001) after AE but not after RE or control session. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the effects of acute exercise on cognitive function in individuals with intellectual disability depend on the exercise mode as well as the nature of the cognitive task. The RE seems to be more recommended for RT enhancement whereas only the aerobic one could improve WM in these individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rihab Borji
- Research Laboratory: Education, Motricité, Sport et Santé, EM2S, LR19JS01, High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Sana Affes
- Research Laboratory: Education, Motricité, Sport et Santé, EM2S, LR19JS01, High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Nidhal Zarrouk
- Research Laboratory: Education, Motricité, Sport et Santé, EM2S, LR19JS01, High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Sonia Sahli
- Research Laboratory: Education, Motricité, Sport et Santé, EM2S, LR19JS01, High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Haithem Rebai
- Research Laboratory: Education, Motricité, Sport et Santé, EM2S, LR19JS01, High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tsai CL, Chang YC, Pan CY, Wang TC, Ukropec J, Ukropcová B. Acute Effects of Different Exercise Intensities on Executive Function and Oculomotor Performance in Middle-Aged and Older Adults: Moderate-Intensity Continuous Exercise vs. High-Intensity Interval Exercise. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:743479. [PMID: 34720993 PMCID: PMC8548419 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.743479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
A wealth of evidence has shown that a single bout of aerobic exercise can facilitate executive function. However, none of current studies on this topic have addressed whether the magnitude of the acute-exercise benefit on executive function and oculomotor performance is influenced by different aerobic exercise modes. The present study was thus aimed toward an investigation of the acute effects of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) vs. moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) on executive-related oculomotor performance in healthy late middle-aged and older adults. Using a within-subject design, twenty-two participants completed a single bout of 30 min of HIIE, MICE, or a non-exercise-intervention (REST) session in a counterbalanced order. The behavioral [e.g., reaction times (RTs), coefficient of variation (CV) of the RT], and oculomotor (e.g., saccade amplitude, saccade latency, and saccadic peak velocity) indices were measured when participants performed antisaccade and prosaccade tasks prior to and after an intervention mode. The results showed that a 30-min single-bout of HIIE and MICE interventions shortened the RTs in the antisaccade task, with the null effect on the CV of the RT in the late middle-aged and older adults. In terms of oculomotor metrics, although the two exercise modes could not modify the performance in terms of saccade amplitudes and saccade latencies, the participants’ saccadic peak velocities while performing the oculomotor paradigm were significantly altered only following an acute HIIE intervention. The present findings suggested that a 30-min single-bout of HIIE and MICE interventions modulated post-exercise antisaccade control on behavioral performance (e.g., RTs). Nevertheless, the HIIE relative MICE mode appears to be a more effective aerobic exercise in terms of oculomotor control (e.g., saccadic peak velocities) in late middle-aged and older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Liang Tsai
- Institute of Physical Education, Health and Leisure Studies, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chuan Chang
- Institute of Physical Education, Health and Leisure Studies, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Yu Pan
- Department of Physical Education, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Chiao Wang
- Institute of Physical Education, Health and Leisure Studies, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jozef Ukropec
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Barbara Ukropcová
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathological Physiology, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sánchez-González JL, Sánchez-Rodríguez JL, Martín-Vallejo J, Martel-Martel A, González-Sarmiento R. Effects of Physical Exercise on Cognition and Telomere Length in Healthy Older Women. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1417. [PMID: 34827416 PMCID: PMC8615568 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical exercise is an effective measure for preventing the onset of cognitive decline and has a direct influence on the aging process. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of a 6-month physical exercise program on cognition and telomere length in adults over 65 years of age. METHOD Seventy-four healthy women were separated into two groups: 41 were included in the intervention group (IG) (72.70 ± 4.127 years and 8.18 ± 1.551 years of education) and 33 in the control group (CG) (71.21 ± 4.127 years and 8.42 ± 2.562). The participants included within the IG carried out three sessions of physical exercise per week for six months. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Stroop test and the Trail Making Test (TMT). Saliva samples were taken and analyzed and relative telomere length was calculated. Those conducting the analysis were blind to the group to which the participants had been assigned. RESULTS An improvement was observed in global cognitive function, in both attentional and executive functions, in the group of adults doing physical exercise as compared to the control group. Six months after the physical exercise program had finished, relative telomere length was found to have increased in the participants in the intervention group. CONCLUSION Physical exercise programs can lead to an improvement in both cognitive functions and telomere length.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Luis Sánchez-González
- Department of Nursery and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursery and Physiotherapy, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Sánchez-Rodríguez
- Department of Basic Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Salamanca, 37005 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Javier Martín-Vallejo
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Abel Martel-Martel
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (R.G.-S.)
| | - Rogelio González-Sarmiento
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (R.G.-S.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Balance Expertise Is Associated with Superior Spatial Perspective-Taking Skills. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11111401. [PMID: 34827399 PMCID: PMC8615958 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Balance training interventions over several months have been shown to improve spatial cognitive functions and to induce structural plasticity in brain regions associated with visual-vestibular self-motion processing. In the present cross-sectional study, we tested whether long-term balance practice is associated with better spatial cognition. To this end, spatial perspective-taking abilities were compared between balance experts (n = 40) practicing sports such as gymnastics, acrobatics or slacklining for at least four hours a week for the last two years, endurance athletes (n = 38) and sedentary healthy individuals (n = 58). The balance group showed better performance in a dynamic balance task compared to both the endurance group and the sedentary group. Furthermore, the balance group outperformed the sedentary group in a spatial perspective-taking task. A regression analysis across all participants revealed a positive association between individual balance performance and spatial perspective-taking abilities. Groups did not differ in executive functions, and individual balance performance did not correlate with executive functions, suggesting a specific association between balance skills and spatial cognition. The results are in line with theories of embodied cognition, assuming that sensorimotor experience shapes cognitive functions.
Collapse
|
10
|
Benefits of VR Physical Exercise on Cognition in Older Adults with and without Mild Cognitive Decline: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9070883. [PMID: 34356259 PMCID: PMC8306887 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9070883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that physical exercise has beneficial effects on cognitive function in older adults. Recently, several physical exercise programs with virtual reality (VR) have been proposed to support physical exercise benefits. However, it is still unclear whether VR physical exercise (VR-PE) has positive effects on cognitive function in older adults. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review (SR) of the effects of VR-PE on cognitive function in older adults with and without cognitive decline. We used academic databases to search for research papers. The criteria were intervention study using any VR-PE, participants were older adults with and without mild cognitive decline (not dementia), and cognitive functions were assessed. We found that 6 of 11 eligible studies reported the significant benefits of the VR-PE on a wide range of cognitive functions in aging populations. The SR revealed that VR-PE has beneficial effects on the inhibition of executive functions in older adults with and without mild cognitive decline. Moreover, VR-PE selectively leads to improvements in shifting and general cognitive performance in healthy older adults. The SR suggests that VR-PE could be a successful approach to improve cognitive function in older adults with and without cognitive decline.
Collapse
|
11
|
Does Acute Exercise Stress Affect Postural Stability and Cognitive Function in Subjects with Chronic Ankle Instability? Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11060788. [PMID: 34203659 PMCID: PMC8232277 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11060788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered postural control in people with chronic ankle instability (CAI) may be attributed to deficits that are associated with neurocognitive function. Acute training is another factor that may negatively affect postural control and increase the risk of ankle sprain. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of acute exercise on postural stability and cognitive function among patients with CAI. Fifteen patients with CAI (aged 21.5 ± 2.0 years) and 15 healthy controls (aged 20.3 ± 1.7 years) completed a single-limb stance postural control test and a battery of computer-based cognitive tests before and after acute exercise. The overall stability index (OSI) was used as a measure of postural stability. The cognitive domains tested were global cognitive score, executive function, attention, visual-spatial perception, information processing, and fine motor control. Subjects in both groups had similar OSI scores, with a trend for reduced stability in the CAI after the exercise protocol (p = 0.053). There were no differences between the groups in all cognitive domains before or after exercise. Following exercise, the domains of overall cognitive score, visual-spatial perception, and information processing speed improved in both groups (p = 0.003, p = 0.033, p = 0.001; respectively). These findings should be considered with caution due to the heterogeneity of the CAI population.
Collapse
|
12
|
Ringenbach S, Arnold N, Myer B, Hayes C, Nam K, Chen CC. Executive Function Improves Following Acute Exercise in Adults with Down Syndrome. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050620. [PMID: 34068059 PMCID: PMC8152466 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The influence of exercise on brain function is an important topic, especially in persons with intellectual deficits. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of an acute bout of resistance training (RT) compared to assisted cycle therapy (ACT) and no training (NT) in adults with DS on cognitive function. Fourteen participants attended four sessions: a baseline assessment, an assisted cycling therapy (ACT) session, a resistance training (RT) session, and a session of no training (NT). In the RT session, the leg press, chest press, seated row, leg curl, shoulder press, and latissimus pulldown were performed. The ACT session consisted of 30 min of cycling and in NT session consisted of 20 min of board games. Inhibition was measured by the Erikson flanker task and cognitive planning was measured by the Tower of London test and both were administered prior to (pretest) and after each intervention (posttest). Our results showed that inhibition time improved more following RT and ACT than NT. There was also a significant difference between ACT and NT. For cognitive planning, improvements were seen following ACT and NT. In conclusion, an acute session of ACT demonstrated a significant trend towards improvements in executive functions in adults with DS which we interpreted using a model of neural changes and the cognitive stimulation hypothesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Ringenbach
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85004, USA; (N.A.); (B.M.); (C.H.); (K.N.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Nathanial Arnold
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85004, USA; (N.A.); (B.M.); (C.H.); (K.N.)
| | - Brandon Myer
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85004, USA; (N.A.); (B.M.); (C.H.); (K.N.)
| | - Claire Hayes
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85004, USA; (N.A.); (B.M.); (C.H.); (K.N.)
| | - Kahyun Nam
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85004, USA; (N.A.); (B.M.); (C.H.); (K.N.)
| | - Chih-Chia Chen
- Department of Kinesiology, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effects of a Combined Intervention of Computerized Cognitive Training Preceded by Physical Exercise for Improving Frailty Status and Cognitive Function in Older Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041396. [PMID: 33546255 PMCID: PMC7913348 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
(1) Objective: This study examined the effects of a combined intervention of Brainastic computerized cognitive training (CCT) preceded by physical exercise (PE) for improving frailty status and cognitive function in older adults. (2) Methods: Older adults aged 50 years or older attending elderly centers, without frailty/history of cognitive impairment, were randomly allocated into either a 12-week (i) multi-domain CCT + PE (n = 117), (ii) two-domain CCT + PE (n = 116) or (iii) video watching + PE (i.e., control, n = 114). Brainastic is an online application for cognitive training through video games. The multi-domain CCT targeted memory, attention, executive function, flexibility and visuospatial ability while the two-domain CCT targeted memory and attention. PE included both aerobic and resistance exercises. Outcomes were changes in frailty levels as measured with a simple frailty questionnaire (FRAIL), global cognition as measured with the Rapid Cognitive Screen (RCS), total learning and verbal memory abilities as measured with the Hong Kong List Learning Test (HKLLT), and executive functions as measured with the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) over 12 weeks. (3) Results: Participants in the intervention groups (multi-/two-domain CCT + PE) showed greater improvements in frailty status, total learning ability and verbal memory ability than control participants (all p < 0.05). The multi-domain CCT did not outperform the two-domain CCT in improving frailty status or cognitive function. The training effects were independent of the baseline cognition of the participants. (4) Conclusions: A combined intervention of multi-/two-domain CCT preceded by PE seemed to convey benefit over video watching preceded by PE in improving frailty status and cognitive function among older adults attending elderly centers.
Collapse
|
14
|
The Relationship between Physical Exercise and Cognitive Function in Korean Middle Aged and Elderly Adults without Dementia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17238821. [PMID: 33260999 PMCID: PMC7730763 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the association between physical exercise and cognitive function in Koreans aged 45 years or above without dementia. Data from the 2006 to 2018 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA) were used. The general characteristics of the study population were investigated using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The association between total exercise time per week and cognitive function, measured based on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores, was investigated using the generalized estimating equation (GEE) model. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on age, educational level, and marital status. A total of 8888 participants were investigated, of which 5173 (58.2%) individuals did not exercise regularly. Among participants who did exercise, 676 (7.6%) individuals were categorized into the Q1, 1157 (13.0%) into the Q2, 908 (10.2%) into the Q3, and 974 (11.0%) into the Q4 group. The mean MMSE score was 26.81 ± 3.17. Compared to the ‘no’ exercise group, better MMSE scores were found in the Q1 (β: 0.3523, p ≤ 0.0001), the Q2 (β: 0.2011, p ≤ 0.0001), the Q3 (β: 0.4075, p ≤ 0.0001), and the Q4 groups (β: 0.3144, p ≤ 0.0001) after adjustment. The magnitude of this association was stronger in participants aged 65 years or above and in single or separated individuals. The findings of this study confirm a positive association between physical exercise and MMSE scores in the middle aged and elderly.
Collapse
|