Impact of Aerobic Training on Cognitive Abilities in Senior Alzheimer’s Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract Background: In exploring the relationship between physical activity and cognitive health, this study focuses on Alzheimer’s disease, a prevalent neurodegenerative condition in the elderly. Recognising the limitations of pharmacological treatments, there is an increasing interest in non-pharmacological interventions like aerobic exercise. This research aims to systematically assess the impact of structured aerobic exercise on cognitive functions in elderly Alzheimer’s patients. By situating the study within the broader context of existing literature, it seeks to contribute to the ongoing discussion about effective Alzheimer’s interventions. Methods: The study employed a randomised controlled trial methodology to evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise on Alzheimer’s patients. Sixty participants, all aged 65 or older and diagnosed with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s, were randomly allocated into two groups. The intervention group participated in a 12-week aerobic exercise programme, while the control group continued with standard care. Assessments of cognitive functions, including memory, attention and executive functioning, were conducted using standardised neuropsychological tests at the beginning, midpoint and end of the study, providing a robust framework for measuring the exercise regimen’s effectiveness. Results: The results of the study were significant and pointed towards the effectiveness of aerobic exercise in improving cognitive functions among elderly Alzheimer’s patients. Compared to the control group, participants in the exercise group showed marked improvements in memory, attention and executive function. These findings are crucial as they suggest that aerobic exercise could serve as an effective intervention to enhance cognitive abilities in this demographic, offering a potential pathway for managing Alzheimer’s symptoms beyond traditional medication. Conclusion: This study underscores the potential benefits of aerobic exercise in managing cognitive decline in elderly patients with Alzheimer’s disease. The significant improvements observed in memory, attention and executive functioning in the exercise group highlight the effectiveness of physical activity as a non-pharmacological intervention. These results have important implications for healthcare practice, suggesting that incorporating aerobic exercises into treatment plans could provide substantial benefits to Alzheimer’s patients, thereby improving their quality of life and cognitive health.