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Associations of Schizophrenia Symptoms and Neurocognition With Physical Activity in Older Adults With Schizophrenia
Published Web Location
https://doi.org/10.1177/1099800413500845Abstract
Background
Low levels of physical activity contribute to the generally poor physical health of older adults with schizophrenia. The associations linking schizophrenia symptoms, neurocognition, and physical activity are not known. Research is needed to identify the reasons for this population's lack of adequate physical activity before appropriate interventions can be designed and tested.Design and methods
In this cross-sectional study, 30 adults aged ≥55 years with schizophrenia were assessed on symptoms (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale), neurocognition (MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery), and physical activity (Sensewear ProArmband). Pearson's bivariate correlations (two-tailed) and univariate linear regression models were used to test the following hypotheses: (1) more severe schizophrenia symptoms are associated with lower levels of physical activity and (2) more severe neurocognitive deficits are associated with lower levels of physical activity.Results
Higher scores on a speed-of-processing test were associated with more average daily steps (p = .002) and more average daily minutes of moderate physical activity (p = .009). Higher scores on a verbal working memory task were associated with more average daily minutes of moderate physical activity (p = .05). More severe depressive symptoms were associated with more average daily minutes of sedentary activity (p = .03).Conclusion
Physical activity interventions for this population are imperative. In order for a physical activity intervention to be successful, it must include components to enhance cognition and diminish psychiatric symptoms.Many UC-authored scholarly publications are freely available on this site because of the UC's open access policies. Let us know how this access is important for you.
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