Physical Fitness and Aortic Stiffness Explain the Reduced Cognitive Performance Associated with Increasing Age in Older People.

摘要: Background Greater physical fitness is associated with reduced rates of cognitive decline in older people; however, the mechanisms by which this occurs are still unclear. One potential mechanism aortic stiffness, increased stiffness resulting higher pulsatile pressures reaching brain and possibly causing progressive micro-damage. There limited evidence that those who regularly exercise may have lower stiffness. Objective To investigate whether greater predict better performance people and, if so, mediates relationship between cognition. Methods Residents independent living facilities, aged 60-90, participated study (N = 102). Primary measures included a computerized assessment battery, pulse wave velocity analysis to measure Six-Minute Walk test assess fitness. Based on hierarchical regression analyses, structural equation modelling was used mediation hypothesis. Results Both independently predicted Spatial Working Memory (SWM) performance, however no mediating found. Additionally, derived model shows that, conjunction BMI sex, explain 33% overall variation SWM, age longer directly predicting any variation. Conclusions both SWM people. The strong effect totally mediated This suggests addressing be important reduce rate decline.