Does Physical Activity Improve Cognitive Functioning? A Synthesis of the Research Literature

Abstract

The purpose of this synthesis was to examine the effects of physical activity on cognitive function. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to study the effects of physical activity on cognitive function in adolescents and adults, what types of physical activity impact cognitive function, as well as to determine the effects that physical activity has on people with Parkinson’s disease. Scholarly peer-reviewed articles were found completely online through the SUNY Brockport Drake Memorial Library Research Guides. Key words were selected to find pertinent articles related to the research questions. Past and current research suggests that physical activity could be an important, natural, and simple way to promote the well-being of an individual at any age, socio-economic group, or lifestyle. Regular high-vigorous physical activity, primarily aerobic, has a direct relationship with the improvement of cognitive function at all ages (Davis et al., 2007; Kvalo, Bru, Bronnick, & Dyrstad, 2017; and Linde and Alfermann; 2014). Alberts et al., (2016), DE Assis, DE Silva, & Silva Dantas (2017), Fiorelli et al., (2017), Fisher et al., (2008), Hazamy et al., (2017), and Loprinizi, Danzel, Ulanowski, & Paydo (2017), each agree that regular physical activity has a positive effect on individuals with Parkinson’s disease both physically and cognitively.