Honors College Theses

Publication Date

11-4-2022

Major

Rehabilitation Sciences (B.S.)

Document Type and Release Option

Thesis (open access)

Faculty Mentor

James Karnes

Abstract

The aging population is the fastest growing population currently. Older adults are most susceptible to cognitive impairment, because of the natural cognitive decline with age. Physical activity changes the body physically by increasing strength and endurance of muscles, and aids quality of life by decreasing the negative impact of cognitive impairment. This study investigated the influence of physical activity on cognitive performance of cognitively impaired older adults. This study found that physical activity had a beneficial effect on cognition when physical activity plans were done for at least 6 months and of moderate to high intensity. While, all areas of cognition were not affected, executive control function, working memory, and attention did show positive correlation in response to physical activity. Understanding the connection between physical activity and cognition will consequently aid healthcare professionals in improving quality of life by slowing cognitive decline.

Thesis Summary

This study investigated the influence of physical activity on cognitive performance of cognitively impaired older adults. This study found that physical activity had a beneficial effect on cognition when physical activity plans were done for at least 6 months and of moderate to high intensity. While, all areas of cognition were not affected, executive control function, working memory, and attention did show positive correlation in response to physical activity. Understanding the connection between physical activity and cognition will consequently aid healthcare professionals in improving quality of life by slowing cognitive decline.

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