A high level of physical fitness is associated with more efficient response preparation in older adults

Abstract

This study assessed the relationship between cardiovascular fitness and temporal preparation in elderly persons. 110 older adults (aged 60-69 or 70-79 years) were sorted into low- and high-fit groups based on aerobic fitness level estimated with a walking test. Response preparation processes were assessed with reaction time tasks in which short (1, 3, 5 s) and long (5, 7, 9 s) preparatory intervals varied randomly. The results suggest a better ability in high-fit individuals to maintain preparation over time (up to 9 s). Results of the present study suggest that in older adults, a high level of aerobic fitness is associated with more efficient response preparation processes. © The Author 2010. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved.