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Older adults who regularly do both aerobic and strength training score higher on cognitive tests than peers who are sedentary or do only aerobic exercise. Researchers at the University of Florida reached that conclusion.
They examined 184 cognitively healthy people aged 85 to 99. Each participant reported their exercise habits and completed neuropsychological tests that measured cognitive function.
Participants who regularly did both aerobic activities (like swimming and cycling) and strength training had the highest cognitive scores—regardless of workout intensity or duration. Those scores reflected attention, processing speed, and cognitive flexibility.
What Else Did the Researchers Discover?
They used the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, a common screening tool that looks at multiple cognitive domains. Using that assessment, they found that participants who didn’t exercise scored the lowest.
Additionally, the mixed-exercise group outperformed others on specific tasks, including symbol coding.
The authors cautioned that the study shows an association rather than proof of cause and effect.
Why This Matters
The results suggest a variety of exercises are linked to better cognitive function in people 85 and older.
With the global population aging, cognitive health is a growing concern. Projections estimate 14 million people in the U.S. will have Alzheimer’s by 2060, up from 6 million in 2020, according to ScienceAlert.
The findings offer hope for healthier aging and a practical way to support cognitive health in later life.
The results give clinicians evidence to include mixed aerobic and strength training in patient wellness plans.
They said maintaining cognitive health can reduce healthcare costs and improve quality of life.
What Will the Team Investigate Next?
Researchers plan to tackle questions such as: Which types of aerobic and strength exercises are most effective? Is walking as beneficial as running? Does weightlifting have the same impact as resistance-band exercises? How much exercise is needed to see cognitive benefits?
Whether exercise can treat neurocognitive disorders is another key question; so far it’s mainly seen as preventive.
The study’s findings were published in the journal GeroScience.
