EFFECTIVENESS OF AEROBIC EXERCISE ON COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia, characterized by subtle cognitive decline. Given the growing aging population and lack of curative pharmacological therapies, aerobic exercise has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological strategy to mitigate cognitive deterioration in this population.

Objective: To assess the impact of structured aerobic exercise on cognitive performance, mood, and physical endurance in individuals diagnosed with MCI.

Methods: A single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted over eight months in Lahore, Pakistan. Ninety participants aged 60–80 years with clinically diagnosed MCI were randomly allocated to either an intervention group (structured aerobic exercise, 3 sessions/week) or a control group (health education only). Primary outcomes were measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery (NAB). Secondary outcomes included the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and independent t-tests.

Results: At the study endpoint, the intervention group showed a significant increase in MoCA scores (mean change: +4.8) and NAB scores (+10.1), compared to minimal changes in the control group. A notable reduction in depressive symptoms (GDS: −2.7) and improved cardiovascular endurance (6MWT: +83.8 meters) were also observed in the intervention group. Statistical analysis revealed a significant time-by-group interaction for all primary and secondary outcomes (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Structured aerobic exercise significantly enhances cognitive function, mood, and physical capacity in individuals with MCI. This non-invasive intervention should be considered as part of standard care in early cognitive decline management.