The beneficial effect of physical activity on cognitive function in community-dwelling older persons with locomotive syndrome

BACKGROUND: Cognitive decline is closely related to motor decline. Locomotive syndrome (LS) is defined as a state associated with a high risk of requiring support because of locomotive organ disorders, and can be evaluated using a questionnaire. This study aimed to clarify the effectiveness of daily goal-targeted exercise on cognitive function in two different populations classified by scores on the Locomo 25 questionnaire. METHODS: Seventy community-dwelling older people who participated in a 13-week health class were divided into two populations based on Locomo 25 scores: <7 (non-LS) and ≥7 (LS). Participants were presented with a daily target steps and worked towards that goal. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Japanese version of Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination-Revised (ACE-R). Average daily physical activity (exercise [Ex]) for 13 weeks was measured using a portable activity meter. Depression status was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in age, years of education, body mass index, smooth muscle mass index, GDS-15 scores, or ACE-R scores between the non-LS and LS populations. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that Ex (odds ratio = 5.01, p = 0.002) for 13 weeks was significantly associated with increased cognitive function in the LS population. The Ex threshold for the increase in cognitive function based on receiver operating curve analysis was 2.29 metabolic equivalents of task (METs) × h (METs · h/day) (p = 0.047) in the LS population. After 13 weeks, ACE-R scores were significantly higher in the Ex ≥ 2.29 than in the Ex < 2.29 METs · h/day group (p = 0.024, η(p)(2) = 0.241) in the LS population based on two-way analysis of covariance. Furthermore, a significant increase in the ACE-R memory domain was seen in the Ex ≥ 2.29 group (p = 0.035, η(p)(2) = 0.213). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that Ex ≥ 2.29 METs · h/day is important for improving cognitive function in LS populations.