Aerobic capacity level can influence spatial navigation performance in healthy and MCI older adults: Neuropsychology/Neuropsychological correlates of physiologic markers of cognitive decline/Dementia

Background Spatial navigation is a complex and fundamental cognitive function that emerges as one of the first deficits in patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Successful spatial navigation relies on an interaction between physical and cognition ability. However, the mechanisms of real‐world navigation in this population remain unclear, especially the possible influence of physical performance. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the possible influence of physical variables (balance, mobility and aerobic capacity) on spatial navigation performance of healthy and MCI individuals through the Floor Maze Test (FMT). As a secondary objective, we compare the performance of these elderly and determine which cognitive variables are associated with spatial ability performance on the test Method Sixty‐two elderly subjects (>60years) (healthy=39;MCI=23) were evaluated. Spatial navigation was investigated through the FMT, Planning Time (PT), Immediate Maze Time (IMT) and Delayed Maze Time (DMT). Moreover, while physical capacity was assessed through the Sit to Stand, 8 foot up and go and STEP test (Senior Fitness Test Battery), and cognitive functions were examined by MMSE, the clock drawing test, digit span, and Trail (A and B). The relationship and possible association between FMT performance and independent variables were analyzed using regression and correlation models. Result The MCI group was significantly slower in all stages of FMT. In addition, FMT performance was mainly associated with spatial orientation and aerobic capacity (R2=0.29 p= <0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the elderly with low aerobic capacity is 3 times more likely to have the worst performances at DMT stage even after controlled by age and diagnostic (O.R =3.1 p=0.04). Conclusion Healthy and MCI older adults should be encouraged to keeping a physical exercise routine in order to maintain their cardiorespiratory levels and spatial navigation ability. Also, future studies must investigate the temporal relationship among the decline of aerobic capacity, spatial navigation and MCI diagnosis.