Modified Functional Fitness Test and Mental Health Relationship

The reemergence of primitive reflexes (PRs) in older adults is linked to dementia and cognitive decline. This study investigated whether physical activity (PA) and functional fitness indices are inversely related to PRs in 52 older adults from Hungarian nursing homes. Results showed that all functional fitness measures, except upper and lower body flexibility, and PA were negatively associated with PRs, with PA being the strongest predictor, explaining 41% of the variance. Hand-grip strength and four functional fitness elements showed weaker negative associations. These findings suggest that maintaining PA may help prevent or delay PR resurgence, offering potential strategies to support mental health in older adults.