A Review of the Effects of Physical Activity and Exercise on Cognitive and Brain Functions in Older Adults.

Author: Bherer L, Erickson KI, Liu-Ambrose T.
Affiliation: PERFORM Centre, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada ; Research Center, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
Conference/Journal: J Aging Res.
Date published: 2013
Other: Volume ID: 2013 , Pages: 657508 , Word Count: 86



Studies supporting the notion that physical activity and exercise can help alleviate the negative impact of age on the body and the mind abound. This literature review provides an overview of important findings in this fast growing research domain. Results from cross-sectional, longitudinal, and intervention studies with healthy older adults, frail patients, and persons suffering from mild cognitive impairment and dementia are reviewed and discussed. Together these finding suggest that physical exercise is a promising nonpharmaceutical intervention to prevent age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
PMID: 24102028