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Feasibility and effectiveness of a walking program for community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment

Authors

van Uffelen, Jannique G. Z., Chinapaw, Marijke J. M., Hopman-Rock, Marijke, van Mechelen, Willem

Journal

Journal Of Aging And Physical Activity, Volume: 17, No.: 4, Pages.: 398-415

Year of Publication

2009

Abstract

This study examined the feasibility and effect on aerobic fitness of a 1-yr, twice-weekly, group-based moderate-intensity walking program (MI-WP, n = 77) compared with a low-intensity activity program (LI-AP, n = 75) for community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Thirty participants did not start a program; median attendance in the other 122 participants was 71%. Small but significant associations were observed between attendance and memory in the MI-WP and general cognition in the LI-AP. Associations were no longer significant when both groups were analyzed together. Intensity, assessed using percentage of heart-rate reserve and the Borg scale, equaled intended intensity for both programs. Aerobic fitness improved significantly in participants in the MI-WP. In conclusion, cognition was not clearly associated with attendance in the 62 participants starting the MI-WP, and average attendance was good. The intensity was feasible for participants who continued the MI-WP. The findings support the proposal that regular moderate-intensity walking improves aerobic fitness in adults with MCI.;

Keywords

aerobic, aged, cognition disorders, exercise, feasibility studies, female, fitness, humans, male, memory disorders, physical fitness, physiology, physiopathology, rehabilitation, walking

Countries of Study

Netherlands

Types of Dementia

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Types of Study

Cohort Study

Type of Outcomes

Cognition, Other

Settings

Community

Type of Interventions

Non-pharmacological Treatment

Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions

Exercise (inc. dancing)