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Assessment of cognition, physical activity and physical fitness in elderly: A critical review

Physical activity and physical fitness apparently have a possible effect on cognition in elderly. However, study results may be influenced by the particular methods. The aim of this literature review was to examine studies of cognition, physical activity and physical fitness in elderly and analyze their methods. In most of the 35 selected studies, cognition was assessed by working memory and semantic, attention and executive function. The instruments for measuring physical activity differ in degree of accuracy/validity; assessments of physical fitness differ due to the particular component, being cardiorespiratory and strength the most valued. Present data shows that levels of physical activity at work, transportation and household activities have not been properly assessed. Since measures of cognition suffer effects of schooling and socio-cultural factors, these variables must be controlled, including the choice of psychological tests to minimize its influence

cognition; physical activity; physical fitness; elderly


Programa de Pós-graduação em Psicologia e do Programa de Pós-graduação em Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte Caixa Postal 1622, 59078-970 Natal RN Brazil, Tel.: +55 84 3342-2236(5) - Natal - RN - Brazil
E-mail: revpsi@cchla.ufrn.br