The Impact of Aerobic Training Programs on Cognitive Functions in Older Adults Based on Intervention Studies: a Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.63.73473Keywords
aerobic training, physical activity, cognitive function, older adults, aging, episodic memory, executive functionsAbstract
Background: In the face of progressive population aging, the decline in cognitive functioning among older adults represents a critical challenge for healthcare systems. Within the paradigm of successful aging, physical activity plays a pivotal role.
Aim: This review aims to evaluate the impact of structured aerobic training programs on global and domain-specific cognitive functions in older adults, based on recent interventional evidence.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted by searching the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. The search was restricted to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English between 2021 and 2026. Studies evaluating cohorts aged 60 years or older, utilizing an aerobic exercise intervention lasting for at least 4-6 weeks, and employing validated neuropsychological assessment tools were eligible for analysis.
Results: Synthesis of the included trials demonstrated that short- and medium-term aerobic training programs (ranging from 6 to 20 weeks, performed 3-5 times per week) induce statistically significant improvements in global cognitive performance, as evidenced by elevated MMSE and MoCA scores. Conversely, in long-term interventions (spanning 1 to 5 years), endurance exercise effectively decelerated the trajectory of normative physiological cognitive decline. Regarding specific cognitive domains, regular moderate-intensity training yielded the most pronounced benefits in memory, executive functions, and information processing speed. This neuroprotective outcome is mediated by a synergistic combination of vascular, neurobiological, and psychological mechanisms.
Conclusions: Aerobic training represents a safe, well-tolerated, and highly effective non-pharmacological intervention that preserves and enhances cognitive health in the geriatric population, demonstrating substantial utility in both mitigating acute age-related deficits and preventing long-term neurodegeneration.
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