The relationship between functional status, physical fitness and cognitive performance in physically active older adults: A pilot study.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Ageing is associated with a progressive decline in physical function and cognitive performance which could result in a shift from an independent to a more dependent lifestyle. The aim of this research study was to assess the fitness, functional performance and cognitive ability in independently living older South Africans and to determine which fitness parameters and functional performance tests best explain the variance in cognitive function.

Design

Descriptive observational study.

Participants

Older adults with a mean age 71±4.7 years (n = 70; 28 men and 42 women) were recruited. Sixty percent of the sample completed at least secondary schooling and more than two-thirds were taking medication for a chronic medical condition.

Measurements

Self-report

SUBMITTER: Ramnath U 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5890973 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature