Brain Vitalization Gymnastics Improved Cognitive Function Marked by Increased BDNF, Decreased Serum Interleukin-6 and Decreased S-100β Expression among Elderly in West Denpasar Primary Health Clinic

Abstract

Background: Brain vitalization gymnastics (BVG) is a form of physical exercise which attempts to synchronize bodily movements with cognition within the same time frame. This study aims to prove BVG can improve cognitive function among the elderly.
 BACKGROUND: Brain vitalisation gymnastics (BVG) is a form of physical exercise which attempts to synchronise bodily movements with cognition within the same time frame.
 AIM: This study aims to prove BVG can improve cognitive function among the elderly.
 METHODS: The impact of BVG was evaluated as opposed to elderly gymnastics (regarded as a control group) for a 4-week study period. Outcomes measured were improvements of cognitive function assessed by MoCA-Ina questionnaire, as well as the difference in serum levels of BDNF, IL-6, and S100β. An experimental pretest-posttest control design was applied to evaluate BDNF and IL-6 levels, while the post-test only designed to evaluate S100β levels. Parametric data were tested for normality before being proceeded into either parametric (independent student’ t) or non-parametric (Mann Whitney) test.
 RESULTS: BVG significantly improved cognitive function better than elderly gymnastics with MoCA-Ina score of 1.53 ± 1.58 dan 0.11 ± 2.54, respectively (p ≤ 0.047). BVG group also had increased BDNF levels when compared with control (-6020.58 ± 7857.22 dan 0.11 ± 2.54; p = 0.027). Whereas BVG had lower IL-6 levels as opposed to the control group (median pre-test IL-6: 2212, median post-test IL-6: 3197.50; p = 0.004). Meanwhile, S100β levels were found lower among BVG when compared with the control group, although statistically insignificant (p = 0.40).
 CONCLUSION: BVG programme for 4 weeks improved: (1) brain plasticity as shown by increased serum BDNF and S100β levels (although the latter was statistically not-significant), as well as marked decrease of IL-6 levels, (2) cognitive function as proven by an increase of MoCA-Ina score when compared with elderly gymnastics.