Research
Know our insights
On this page, you will find all the scientific output resulting from the Fitness for Alzheimer's Project, as well as a brief description of the achieved results.
A wide range of intervention methods were discovered, indicating significant diversity. By assessing both physical fitness and cognitive abilities together, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of how combined interventions affect individuals. Additionally, thoroughly examining the effectiveness of cognitive training apps necessitates considering individual differences and practical results in real-world situations.
The findings showed that all training groups improved cognitive performance and functional abilities when compared with the control group, demonstrating the beneficial impact of exercise—whether physical alone or combined with cognitive training—on this population. However, no significant differences were found between the intervention groups themselves on global cognition, indicating that all training modalities were similarly effective in enhancing general cognitive function. Some specific fitness outcomes varied across groups, but the overall pattern suggests that engaging in structured physical exercise, with or without additional cognitive training, is effective in promoting cognitive and functional gains in older adults with cognitive decline.
This study found that both aerobic and strength training improved physical performance in older adults, with aerobic training enhancing aerobic capacity and upper body strength, and strength training with cognitive exercises improving flexibility. However, none of the training methods showed significant cognitive improvements. The study highlighted the importance of structured physical exercise programs for enhancing physical fitness in older adults and suggested that future research should include longer durations, more male participants, and diverse cognitive assessments to better evaluate cognitive effects.
Our eBook provides a concise background on Alzheimer's disease, highlighting what the literature suggests about the impact of physical exercise on slowing cognitive decline, as well as the key results of the Project. Additionally, it outlines the training plans used in the project.
To access the eBook, please send an email to fit4alz@ipvc.pt. We would be happy to share this document with you.