Question:

Does aerobic exercise, resistance training, and/or Tai Chi improve cognitive performance in adults over 50?

Conclusion:

Results are inconclusive; individual studies show significant impact of exercise on cognitive performance, but when analyzed collectively, there is a lack of consistency in results. Resistance training and Tai Chi showed some measurable effects.

Process:

• 25 of 725 studies qualified for analysis
• All selected studies were randomized controlled trials (strong evidence)
• Cochrane standards used to determine weakness (bias) in study design

Analysis:

• At least 10 participants per study
• Measures: large categories: memory and executive function, with subcategories for each
• Exercise types were compared to stretching/toning, no exercise, and no intervention control groups

Results:

• Resistance training, when compared to stretching and toning, improved measures of reasoning (executive function)
• Tai Chi, when compared to no exercise, improved measures of attention and processing speed (executive function)
• There were no significant differences between the aerobic exercise groups and the control groups

Other Information:

• Studies do not consider how fit the patients were at the start
• Results are usually more consistent in older adults, i.e. 50-64 may be too young to show a difference
• Studies were brief in duration, and long-term studies would be more helpful