Medical Analysis
The Impact of Physical Activity and Nutrition on the Ageing Adult's Cognition
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Angela Stagliano
This paper delves into the critical relationship between physical activity, nutrition, and cognitive function in older adults, highlighting the physiological and psychological changes that accompany aging. As individuals age, they face challenges such as decreased brain volume and muscle mass, which can lead to cognitive decline, social isolation, and a diminished quality of life. Drawing from a comprehensive literature review, this paper outlines how regular exercise can enhance neuroplasticity and slow cognitive deterioration, while proper nutrition—particularly sufficient protein and hydration—plays a vital role in maintaining physical and mental health. We offer current recommendations for exercise and dietary intake tailored for older adults, as well as practical strategies for integrating cognitive training into daily routines. Despite significant findings, gaps in the literature regarding specific guidelines for cognitive training frequency and intensity are also addressed. This study provides actionable takeaways for healthcare professionals, caregivers, and researchers committed to promoting healthy aging and improving the overall well-being of older adults.
Supporting Pharmacists in Australia to Better Communicate with Residents of Residential Aged Care Facilities about Vaccination
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Katarzyna Bolsewicz
With an increasing number of individuals residing in residential aged care facilities (hereafter residents), we need to understand how to support them in leading a good life. Vaccination is an effective strategy to protect residents against diseases, which can pose significant risks due to residents’ age, comorbidities, and communal living environments. Pharmacists in Australia play an increasingly important role in building an informed consent and administering vaccinations to the elderly, including residents, However, research on how pharmacists are supported in this evolving role is limited. Many residents live with complex health needs including cognitive decline; and consent often involves residents’ family. This study aims to explore the communication and information needs of pharmacists delivering vaccinations to residents in Australia. In May-August 2024, using social media and snowballing approach, we recruited pharmacists who deliver vaccinations to residents in Australia. We conducted semi-structured interviews online, and analysed data thematically. The findings illuminate the challenges pharmacists face in obtaining consent from residents and their families, pharmacists’ perceptions of the available information and skills in conducting supportive vaccination conversations. Additionally, the study highlights upstream factors influencing pharmacists' ability to recommend and administer vaccinations. These insights will inform the adaptation of existing communication tools, as well as education and fiscal policies, to better support pharmacists in their roles. Future research should investigate the perspectives of residents and their families on the factors influencing vaccination decisions for residents.
Featured Interacting Effects of Outdoor Air Pollution and Physical Activity on Cognitive Health among Older Adults in India: A Multilevel Analysis
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Sayani Das, Liat Ayalon
Cognitive health in ageing populations presents a critical public health challenge, particularly in regions such as India with high ambient air pollution. Grounded in the Stress Process Model, this study examines the interplay between outdoor air pollution—an environmental stressor—and physical activity (PA), a resilience resource, in shaping cognitive health among older Indian adults. Using the quantitative multilevel approach, the analysis utilises nationally representative data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI Wave 1), involving 31,902 adults aged ≥60. Cognitive function was assessed using composite scores, PA was self-reported, and annual PM2.5 exposure was estimated using satellite-derived, state-level data. Multilevel regression analyses, adjusted for sociodemographic and health covariates at individual and household levels, tested interactions between PM2.5 and PA. Results indicate that physically active older adults demonstrated significantly higher cognitive scores (β=2.54, p<0.001); however, PM2.5 exposure attenuated this benefit through a negative interaction (β=−0.13, p<0.001). Notably, 32.9% of participants faced high PM2.5 exposure despite being physically active, while only 16.2% experienced high pollution combined with inactivity. A synergistic antagonism (Synergy Index=0.72; 95%CI:0.64–0.81) further indicated that pollution diminished PA’s protective effects on cognition. Although the cross-sectional design limits causal inference, the findings underscore the combined influence of environmental and behavioural factors on cognitive ageing. Promoting cognitive health in later life requires a dual strategy—integrating physical activity promotion with air quality improvements—particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as India. This study supports the development of intersectoral policies addressing the medical, environmental, and behavioural determinants of healthy ageing.
