Contribution of sports practice to the cognitive abilities of el-derly people

Abstract

Over the last few years, we have observed a process of demographic transition, which has shown an increase in the number of elderly people and a decrease in the number of young people. This demographic transition is accompanied by an epidemiological transition, characterized by a change in the morbidity and mortality profile, with an increased prevalence of chronic degenerative diseases, such as dementia syndromes. The impairment of cognitive abilities can have a significant impact on the autonomy and independence of elderly people, and can culminate in dementia. In this context, it is important to carry out studies aimed at developing strategies to promote cognitive health in the elderly. The aim of this study was to assess how physical activity can contribute to cognitive health in the elderly population. This study was a systematic review based on the PubMed platform, using the descriptors "sports and cognition and elderly". The final sample that made up this study consisted of 11 articles. The practice of diversified physical activities is associated with improved cognitive performance in healthy elderly people. However, there is no definition as to which type of physical activity contributes most to cognitive performance or what frequency and intensity is necessary for there to be a gain in the cognitive abilities of elderly people.