Behavior and habits
A · High confidenceDoes exercise help thinking skills in people over 50?
Subject: Exercise interventions for cognitive function in adults older than 50
What this means
Exercise improved thinking skills in people over 50. Sessions of 45 to 60 minutes at moderate intensity or higher were linked to gains; resistance training and tai chi also showed an effect.
Northey JM, Cherbuin N, Pumpa KL, Smee DJ, Rattray B · 2018 · British Journal of Sports Medicine 52(3):154-160
What does this rating mean?
Multiple consistent meta-analyses or a position stand. Sufficient basis for a fixed choice in the coaching.
Findings
Regular exercise, including resistance training, is associated with modest improvements in cognitive function in adults older than 50; combined aerobic and resistance training showed the largest effects.
Who this applies to
Community-dwelling adults older than 50, with or without existing cognitive decline.
What to keep in mind
The favourable session length and intensity come from comparing studies with each other; they were not tested head to head in this review.
Practical conclusion for REZA
A mixed programme of cardio and resistance training is a reasonable, low-burden recommendation for older adults wanting to support cognition or function.
View method and source
Methodology
Systematic review with meta-analysis
Limitations
Studies are too heterogeneous to prescribe one precise recipe; most effects are small to moderate and long-term clinical relevance is not established.
Original source
DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-096587 · PMID: 28438770
View on PubMed →This information is general education about scientific research. It is not personal medical advice and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other healthcare professional. If you have symptoms, a medical condition or take medication, consult your GP or treating professional before changing your training or nutrition.