Lifestyle and Neurocognition in Older Adults With Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Cognitive Impairment

Abstract

Objective To determine the relationship of lifestyle factors and neurocognitive functioning in older adults with vascular risk factors and cognitive impairment, without dementia (CIND). Methods One hundred sixty adults (Mean = 65.4±6.8 years) with CIND completed neurocognitive assessments of executive function, processing speed, and memory. Objective measures of physical activity using accelerometry, aerobic capacity determined by exercise testing, and dietary habits quantified by the Food Frequency Questionnaire and 4-Day Food Diary to assess adherence to the Mediterranean and DASH diets were obtained to assess direct effects with neurocognition. Potential indirect associations of high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP) and the Framingham Stroke Risk Profile (FSRP) also were examined. Results Greater aerobic capacity (β =0.24) and daily physical activity (β = 0.15) were associated with better Executive Functioning/Processing Speed and Verbal Memory (βs = 0.24; 0.16). Adherence to the DASH diet was associated with better Verbal Memory (β = 0.17). Greater hsCRP (βs = −0.14; −0.21) and FSRP (β= −0.18; −0.18) were associated with poorer Executive Functioning/Processing Speed and Verbal Memory. Greater stroke risk partially mediated the association of aerobic capacity with Executive Functioning/Processing Speed, and Verbal Memory, and greater inflammation partially mediated the association of physical activity and aerobic fitness, with Verbal Memory. Conclusions Higher levels of physical activity, aerobic fitness, and adherence to the DASH diet are associated with better neurocognitive performance in adults with CIND. These findings suggest that the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits could reduce the risk of neurocognitive decline in vulnerable older adults. Trial Registration NCT0157354

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