Aging is a natural process that can reduce cognitive function in older adults. One factor that may affect cognitive function is physical activity. Older adults who
regularly engage in physical activity can help maintain brain function and improve their quality of life. This study aimed to determine the relationship between physical activity and cognitive function among older adults at UPT PSTW Magetan.
This study used a descriptive correlational design with a cross-sectional approach. The study involved 143 older adults, and 60 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Physical activity was measured using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) questionnaire, while cognitive function was assessed using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). The data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses with the Spearman Rank Correlation test at a significance level of α = 0.05.
The results showed that most respondents had a moderate level of physical activity and normal cognitive function. The Spearman Rank Correlation test showed a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05) with a correlation coefficient of r = -0.913. These results indicate a significant and very strong relationship between physical activity and cognitive function in older adults.
Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that physical activity is associated with cognitive function among older adults at UPT PSTW Magetan. Older adults who regularly engage in physical activity tend to maintain better cognitive function. Therefore, physical activity may be an effective strategy to help preserve cognitive abilities and improve the quality of life of older adults. The findings of this study are expected to serve as a reference for future researchers to develop studies using more diverse research methods and larger sample sizes.