Aims: Physical activity (PA) may be an accessible way to protect cognitive function, but which PA patterns take effect is unclear. We sought to explore the association between PA patterns and cognitive function in specific groups. Methods: This cross-sectional study used the data from the 2018 survey of China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Cognitive function was assessed by Mini-Mental State Examination. Multivariable linear models were conducted to examine the associations of self-reported frequency and duration in different PA intensities with cognitive function. Subgroup analyses were performed by age and sex. Results: A total of 5402 respondents aged ≥60 were included. Compared with no PA, 4-7 days/week on moderate PA (MPA) (β=0.31, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.53) and light PA (LPA) (β=0.32, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.60) showed better global cognition, while it reversed on vigorous PA (VPA) (β=-0.51, 95% CI: -0.77, -0.25). With <0.5 hours/each time as reference, 0.5-4 hours/each time on MPA and LPA showed better global cognition, while ≥4 hours/each time on VPA (β=-0.63, 95% CI: -0.94, -0.33) and LPA (β=-0.43, 95% CI: -0.79, -0.07) showed worse global cognition. Similar results were found in most cognitive domains and respondents aged 60-75. Compared with men, trends above were more pronounced among women. Conclusions: Excessive PA is negatively associated with cognitive function. Only with more frequency, appropriate duration and intensity, there is a positive associated with better cognitive performance.

Authors:
Wenhang Zuo, Sichuan University, China
Jin Peng, Sichuan University, China
Jinhui Wu, Sichuan University, China

About the Presenter(s)
Wenghang Zuo is a doctoral candidate in National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.

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