Effect of resistance-type exercise training with or without protein supplementation on cognitive functioning in frail and pre-frail elderly: secondary analysis of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Mech Ageing Dev. 2014 Mar-Apr:136-137:85-93. doi: 10.1016/j.mad.2013.12.005. Epub 2013 Dec 27.

Abstract

Physical activity has been proposed as one of the most effective strategies to prevent cognitive decline. Protein supplementation may exert an additive effect. The effect of resistance-type exercise training with or without protein supplementation on cognitive functioning in frail and pre-frail elderly people was assessed in a secondary analysis. Two 24-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled intervention studies were carried out in parallel. Subjects performed a resistance-type exercise program of two sessions per week (n=62) or no exercise program (n=65). In both studies, subjects were randomly allocated to either a protein (2×15 g daily) or a placebo drink. Cognitive functioning was assessed with a neuropsychological test battery focusing on the cognitive domains episodic memory, attention and working memory, information processing speed, and executive functioning. In frail and pre-frail elderly, resistance-type exercise training in combination with protein supplementation improved information processing speed (changes in domain score 0.08±0.51 versus -0.23±0.19 in the non-exercise group, p=0.04). Exercise training without protein supplementation was beneficial for attention and working memory (changes in domain scores 0.35±0.70 versus -0.12±0.69 in the non-exercise group, p=0.02). There were no significant differences among the intervention groups on the other cognitive tests or domain scores.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01109628 NCT01110369.

Keywords: Aging; Cognitive functioning; Exercise training; Frailty; Protein supplementation.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Attention
  • Cognition Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Cognition*
  • Diet
  • Dietary Proteins / therapeutic use*
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Frail Elderly
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Memory, Short-Term
  • Research Design
  • Resistance Training*

Substances

  • Dietary Proteins

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT01109628
  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT01110369