Does Exercise in Older Adults Predict Problem Solving? The Role of Personality

Research suggests that physical fitness is positively associated with cognitive functioning in older adults, and that executive functions may be associated in particular. This study explored whether personality supplemented the relationship between physical activity and problem-solving. A computerized version of the Tower of London provided number of errors and time to completion as dependent variables using a sample of 65 community-dwelling older people. The NEO-FFI assessed the Big 5 dimensions of personality. Choice reaction time was used to control for changes in speed of processing with increased age. Age remained a significant predictor of both dependent variables, with neuroticism and agreeableness also showing predictive ability. Aerobic fitness was not associated with either outcome measure, suggesting that there might be differential effects of exercise on measures of different executive functions. Personality factors appear to have a stronger association with the cognitive function that has been reported previously.