Cognition is affected by aging, especially in terms of memory and attention. Exectutive Function, skills that help you to get things done including time management and the ability to pay attention, depends on the prefrontal cortex. The cortex reduces in size with age.

Bonavita (2016) associates better cognitive performance amongst older people who have active rather than sedentary lifestyles.

Studies using Neuroimagery show that there is a link between being fit in terms of cardiorespiratory and aerobic health, and brain structure and function (especially in pre-cortical areas and areas where neural circuits related to EF are located) (SOURCE)

It is important to understand the positive impact of exercise on cognitive impairments as this can help to increase independence, reduce disability and prevent institutionalisation (Patel, Coshall, Rudd et al, 2002)

Commonly used measures of cognition in Irish and Australian hospitals include the MMSE and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. These are questionaires…