Benefits of Physical Exercise Training on Cognition and Quality of Life in Frail Older Adults

TLDR

Frailty heightens risks of falls, hospitalization, cognitive decline, and psychological distress, while exercise has been shown to enhance cognition and quality of life in healthy seniors. This study aimed to determine whether frail older adults experience comparable benefits from physical exercise. Eighty‑three participants aged 61–89 were randomized to 12 weeks of thrice‑weekly exercise or a waiting‑list control, with frailty assessed by a geriatric examination and pre‑ and post‑tests of physical capacity, cognition, and quality of life. The exercise group showed significant gains in physical capacity, executive function, processing speed, working memory, and overall quality of life, with benefits equivalent to those seen in nonfrail participants, confirming that physical training improves cognition and well‑being in frail older adults.

Abstract

Frailty is a state of vulnerability associated with increased risks of fall, hospitalization, cognitive deficits, and psychological distress. Studies with healthy senior suggest that physical exercise can help improve cognition and quality of life. Whether frail older adults can show such benefits remains to be documented. A total of 83 participants aged 61–89 years were assigned to an exercise-training group (3 times a week for 12 weeks) or a control group (waiting list). Frailty was determined by a complete geriatric examination using specific criteria. Pre- and post-test measures assessed physical capacity, cognitive performance, and quality of life. Compared with controls, the intervention group showed significant improvement in physical capacity (functional capacities and physical endurance), cognitive performance (executive functions, processing speed, and working memory), and quality of life (global quality of life, leisure activities, physical capacity, social/family relationships, and physical health). Benefits were overall equivalent between frail and nonfrail participants. Physical exercise training leads to improved cognitive functioning and psychological well-being in frail older adults.