| Popis: |
Background: Studies have shown a sex difference in the cognitive dysfunction in the elderly where women are more susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease than men. Physical activity (PA) is an important strategy for brain health, but the exact mechanism is unclear. Santos has the largest proportion of the elderly population in São Paulo State (22%), but no studies have whether there are differences between the sexes in cognitive function. Objective: To evaluate the differences between the sexes in the cognitive function of the elderly and which factors are associated with this difference. Methods: Ninety-seven women and sixty-nine men were eligible for the study. Inclusion criteria were >65 years old, no severe cognitive impairment, preserved activities of daily living. Cognitive function and PA were assessed by the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and Baecke questionnaire. Results: The mean age was 75±7 and 73±7, for women and men, respectively. Both sexes showed a similar MMSE score (26, varying between 14 and 30) that was inversely associated with age. The influence of the schooling status on MMSE was greater in women (r=0.49, p=0.0001) compared to men (r= 0.30, p9. Conclusions: The MMSE score is affected by the aging process similarly between the sexes. The years of schooling have an influence on cognitive function in women that is attenuated by higher PA. Ethical Committee: CAAE 20938619.4.0000.5509. Financial Support: São Paulo Research Foundation. |
