Effects of YogaFit® vs. Zumba® Gold on Cognitive Functioning in an Elderly Female Population

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess how Zumba ® Gold or YogaFit ® affect cognitive functioning in elderly adults. Physical activity reduces obesity, high blood pressure high cholesterol, and insulin resistance. The results of our study support previous research indicating exercise is an important factor in maintaining and improving cognitive functioning.As life expectancy has increased in the United States, there is growing interest in determining ways to prevent cognitive decline in the aging process [1][2][3]. Although it is assumed that cognitive decline begins early in life, cognitive dysfunction appears to accelerate in our 60's and 70 's [4,5]. The loss of cognitive ability, from moderate cognitive decline to dementia can have profound implications on the health and well-being of affected individuals.The population living longer means increasing numbers of people experiencing cognitive decline which will have a major impact on our economy and health care system [6]. Prevention of cognitive decline is a lifelong process. There is a growing body of research that suggests improving lifestyle behaviors is a significant factor in the maintenance of cognitive functioning [7][8][9].Research has demonstrated that physical activity, nutrition, stress management, mental activity, and socialization all impact cognitive health [10,11]. Fratliglioni S, et al. [12] indicate that socially integrated networks, cognitive leisure activities, and regular physical activity have significant impact on slowing the rate of cognitive decline and preventing dementia. By determining the lifestyle choices which significantly impact cognitive health over the lifespan, may encourage adults of all ages to practice critical healthy behaviors.Exercise seems to play a significant role in maintaining cognitive health [7,13,14]. For instance, aerobic exercise increases brainderived neurotrophic factor, insulin-like, and vascular endothelial growth factors. These changes are thought to increase neurogenesis, particularly in the hippocampus of the brain [15][16]. People with higher aerobic capacity were found to have greater grey and white brain matter volume as measured by magnetic resonance imaging [17]. According to Churchill J, et al. [18], executive functions of the type associated with frontal lobe and hippocampal regions of the brain may be maintained or enhanced in humans with higher levels of fitness. A meta-analytic study of the benefits of fitness training on cognition indicated increased performance, regardless of the type of cognitive task, the training method, or participants' characteristics [18].