The Relationship between Leisure Time Physical Activity and Cognitive Function in Older Americans

This study aims to investigate the correlation between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and cognitive function in older adults.

We conducted an analysis of 2,657 participants (aged ≥60 years) from the cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2011–2014. Multiple logistic regression and linear regression analyses were employed to explore the associations between leisure-time physical activity and cognitive function.

Significant correlations were observed between LTPA duration and frequency with Animal Fluency Test (AF) and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) scores. Engaging in leisure-time physical activity 1–4 times per week was associated with a 33%((OR) 0.67, (CI) 0.48–0.92) reduced risk of memory decline compared to non-active individuals. An inverted U-shaped relationship was observed between LTPA duration and AF/DSST and a U-shaped relationship between LTPA frequency and the risk of memory decline.

Encouraging older adults to participate in leisure activities 3–4 times per week may help protect cognitive function.