Physical (in)activity and cognition in cognitively impaired older people

Aging coincides with a decline in lower limb muscle strength (LLMS). Preserving LLMS may be considered a very important determinant of functional independence in the elderly. To maintain LLMS the question arises whether habitual physical activitys (HPAs) can prevent a decline in LLMS. This review aims to determine the relationship between HPAs throughout life and LLMS above age 50. Using relevant databases and keywords, 70 studies that met the inclusion criteria were reviewed and where possible, a meta-analysis was performed. The main findings are: 1. The present level of HPA is positively related to LLMS; 2. HPAs in the past have little effect on present LLMS; 3. HPAs involving endurance have less influence on LLMS compared to HPAs involving strength; 4. People with a stable habitually physically active life are able to delay a decline in LLMS. In conclusion, to obtain a high amount of LLMS during aging, it is important to achieve and maintain a high level of HPA with mainly musclestrengthening activities. 1 2.