Physical Activity and Neurocognitive Symptoms in Older Adults During COVID-19 Pandemic

Overview

Journal J Appl Gerontol

Specialties Geriatrics
Infectious Diseases

Date 2024 Sep 4

PMID 39229852

Authors

Perla K Ortiz-Acosta

Jairo E Martinez

Clara Vila-Castelar

Joshua T Fox-Fuller

Celina Pluim

Ganesh M Babulal

Liliana Ramirez-Gomez

Diana Munera

Yakeel T Quiroz

Edmarie Guzman-Velez

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Examine whether physical activity (PA) changes during the COVID-19 pandemic were related to subjective cognitive decline (SCD), depression, and anxiety in older adults and whether these varied by sociodemographic variables. 301 older adults completed an online survey between May and October 2020 and 3 months later, including self-report questionnaires of SCD, depression, and anxiety. PA changes were determined with a question. 60% of participants reported decreased PA. Those who reduced their PA were more likely to be from low to middle income and younger. PA increase was related to less SCD and depressive symptoms compared to those who decreased it. Participants who maintained their PA had fewer SCD concerns, depressive, and anxiety symptoms than those who decreased it. Reducing PA was associated with worse neuropsychiatric and cognitive symptoms. Encouraging older adults to increase PA may help mitigate some of the pandemic's adverse effects on psychological well-being.

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