The relationship between cognitive function to physical activity, functional status and social participation in older adults

Objective: Changes in cognitive functions during the aging process are quite striking. However, changes are also expected in the level of physical activity, functional status and social participation. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between cognitive function to physical activity, functional status, and social participation in older adults. Method: The research is a cross-sectional and quantitative study conducted with 123 participants over the age of 65 in Antalya province, Döşemealtı district, Kuzeykent family health center and Private Termessos Hospital physical therapy unit. Within the scope of the study, the data collected with the "Demographic Information Form", " Standardized Mini Mental Test", "Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale", "International Physical Activity Questionnaire", "Timed Up and Go Test", "10 meter Walking Test", "Keele Participation Assessment", "Impact on Participation and Autonomy Questionnaire" were analyzed with "IBM SPSS Statistics Base v23" version. Results: The age range of the participants is 65-91 and the average age is 69,5±4,6. 46.3% of the participants are women, 78.9% are married, and 57.7% are primary school graduates. 33.3% of the participants have a low physical activity level. There is a positive and moderate relationship between cognitive functions and functional status, physical activity level and social participation. There is also a moderate positive relationship between functional status and physical activity level and social participation. Conclusion: Various neurodegenerative diseases, especially dementia, occur in the elderly due to cognitive decline, and it is predicted that the incidence of these diseases will increase in the future. In terms of preserving cognitive functions in the elderly population, improving functionality, increasing the level of physical activity and social participation can be considered as an significant initiative of action and prevention against cognitive disorders. Key words: Older adults, cognitive function, physical activity, social participation.