Differential physical activity patterns in cognitively impaired vs healthy older adults using accelerometers

Objective. Physical Activity (PA) plays a pivotal role as a protective factor against the development of dementia and is associated with cognitive performance. However, quantitative data collected on older adults under ecological conditions remain limited. In the present study, a continuous longitudinal assessment of PA parameters was performed to clarify if differences in daily and hourly patterns of PA exist in older adults who differ by cognitive status. Methods. Seventy-two adults aged 65+ were categorized by cognitive status (cognitively impaired [CI] vs healthy controls [HC]) and monitored using wrist-worn accelerometers to assess daily and hourly PA levels, including the percentage of time spent in PA at different intensities. Results. In those of CI group, a significant reduction in overall PA vol- ume and intensity was observed. This was evidenced by lower step counts, increased time spent in sedentary behavior and decreased en- gagement in PA of light and moderate-to-vigorous intensity. Conclusions. The objective analysis of daily PA patterns using wear- able accelerometers holds significant promise for quantifying changes associated with cognitive disorders and may optimize interventions to enhance their activity, thus reducing the impact of cognitive decline.