Volume 30, Issue 172, June 2026

Ageing and Cognitive Function: The Role of Physical Activity and Social Engagement

Katarzyna Piekarz^1♦, Izabella Prządo¹, Patrycja Patronik¹, Łukasz Karaś¹, Sabina Krupa-Nurcek²

¹Student at the Medical College of the University of Rzeszów, Faculty of Medicine, al. Tadeusza Rejtana 16C, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland
²Collegium Medicum of the University of Rzeszów, Department of Surgery, al. Tadeusza Rejtana 16C, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland

^♦Corresponding author
Katarzyna Piekarz, Medical College of the University of Rzeszów, Faculty of Medicine, al. Tadeusza Rejtana 16C, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Aging is a natural biological process that results, among other things, in cognitive decline. While some cognitive abilities based on experience may be retained in seniors, information processing and memory skills may decline. Frequent physical, intellectual, and social activity can help slow brain degeneration. The coexistence of somatic and neurodegenerative diseases, along with a sedentary lifestyle in the elderly, complicates the development of appropriate clinical strategies and requires holistic care and research in this area. Aim of the study: Assessment of elements affecting cognitive function in seniors based on activity in various areas of daily life. Materials and methods: This study analyzed a 42-question survey administered to 116 individuals aged 60 or older residing in a nursing home. Health-promoting behaviors and knowledge about a healthy lifestyle were examined. Results: The analysis showed that the surveyed seniors most frequently engaged in physical activities such as walking, gardening, and cycling. They spent their free time chiefly watching television, reading books and newspapers, and relaxing. Respondents also demonstrated intellectual activity, most often through reading books, taking part in discussions, and attending University of the Third Age classes. Conclusions: Seniors are most active in daily life, including household chores and active participation in family life, which also gives them a sense of being needed. Seniors most often spend their free time passively, while their physical activity is usually moderate, such as walking or gardening. Respondents also pursue intellectual pursuits through reading books and attending University of the Third Age classes.

Keywords: ageing, elderly, cognitive functions, physical activity

Medical Science, 2026, 30, e99ms3846

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Published: 12 June 2026