Physical Functioning Is Associated With Processing Speed and Executive Functions in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract

Objectives. The aim of this study was to examine the association between physical functioning and cardiovascular burden on the cognitive performance of community-dwelling older adults.Method. Ninety-three adults aged 60 and older completed a medical evaluation by a geriatrician, performance-based physical tests, and neuropsychological assessments. Cognitive composite scores (memory, speed, and executive) as well as a physical functioning score were created by averaging standardized z-scores of selected tests. A cardiovascular burden index was also computed by totalling the number of cardiovascular risk factors and diseases.Results. Multiple hierarchical regression analyses reveal that higher level of physical functioning was significantly associated with greater processing speed and better executive functions but was not associated with memory performance. These relations were independent of age, sex, and level of education. Cardiovascular burden was not significantly associated with any cognitive domain.Discussion. These results suggest that cognition is related to simple performance-based physical tests and highlight the importance of intervention studies aimed at enhancing cognitive and physical functioning in older adults.

Aging well: Processing speed inhibition and working memory related to balance and aerobic endurance

“…Desjardin‐Crepeau et al . used a composite physical function score based on the modified Physical Performance Test (seven timed tasks including balance, chair stand and the timed up‐&‐go) to predict performance on the DSST in 93 older adults . Rosano et al .…”

“…Consistent with these findings, Desjardin‐Crepeau et al . used a composite physical performance score that included the 6‐min walk, and found that it predicted performance on the DSST …”

“…The study results verified positive associations between physical and cognitive performance, such that those with better physical performance also showed higher cognitive function, consistent with literature in both well and health-compromised older adults. 21,22 Furthermore, physical performance measures assessing for dynamic balance (FAB) and aerobic endurance (6-min walk) were specifically associated with the cognitive domains of processing speed, inhibition, and working memory.…”

“…23 Desjardin-Crepeau et al used a composite physical function score based on the modified Physical Performance Test (seven timed tasks including balance, chair stand and the timed up-&-go) to predict performance on the DSST in 93 older adults. 22 Rosano et al also explored physical function (standing balance, chair stands, gait speed) and DSST in older adults (n = 2893), and found that better performance on all three physical measures predicted faster processing speed. 23 Better balance was also significantly positively associated with inhibition, and showed a trend in its association with working memory (components of executive function) after controlling for age.…”

“…Consistent with these findings, Desjardin-Crepeau et al used a composite physical performance score that included the 6-min walk, and found that it predicted performance on the DSST. 22 Colcombe and Kramer carried out a meta-analysis on 18 studies that used aerobic endurance training in healthy older adults along with various cognitive assessments. 27 They found that cognitive tasks most reflective of inhibition (using the flanker task), showed the largest benefits of aerobic training.…”