Effects of two programmes of combined Land-Based and Water-Based exercise on the cognitive function and fitness levels of healthy older adults

Abstract Very little is known about the influence training programmes that combine land-based and water-based exercises might have on the cognitive function of healthy older people. Aim to analyze the combined effect of two physical exercise programs (water-based and land-based) on fitness level and cognitive function. Method 15 senior citizens carried out a water and land-based exercise program (EF group), while 22 senior citizens followed the same program with the addition of cognitive training performed in water (EC group). The effects of both programs were assessed by means of the Symbol Digit Modalities, the Two-minute step and the Timed-up-and-go tests. Results The data obtained showed that both programs had significant effects on the participants' fitness level and cognitive function, although only those in the EC group showed a significantly higher improvement. Conclusion The combination of water-based and land-based exercise may lead to improvements in cognitive functions and fitness levels in healthy older adults. The inclusion of cognitive exercises performed in water seems to maximise these effects.

摘要：学界目前对结合陆地与水上运动的训练方案对健康老年人群认知功能的影响所知甚少。本研究旨在分析水上运动与陆地运动两类体育运动方案对健康老年人体能水平与认知功能的联合影响。
方法：15名老年受试者参与了水上与陆地联合运动干预方案（EF组），另有22名老年受试者在该方案基础上额外增加了水中认知训练（EC组）。两项方案的干预效果通过符号数字模态测试（Symbol Digit Modalities）、两分钟踏步测试（Two-minute step）以及计时起立行走测试（Timed-up-and-go）进行评估。
结果：所得数据显示，两项方案均对受试者的体能水平与认知功能产生了显著影响，但仅EC组受试者的改善幅度更为显著。
结论：水上运动与陆地运动的联合干预方案，可改善健康老年人的认知功能与体能水平；额外加入水中认知训练，似乎能进一步强化此类改善效果。