LAUSR

Objectives This study aimed to identify the effects of different physical activities practiced during the time period when COVID-19 social distancing measures were in place on the risk of subjective memory decline in adults. Study design Retrospective cohort study. Methods Data from the Prospective Study about Mental and Physical Health (PAMPA), a state-level (Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil), online-based, cohort study were analysed. Respondents were asked to rate their memory before COVID-19 social distancing measures were implemented (retrospectively) and on the day that the survey was completed. Subjective memory decline was defined as a perceived worsening of memory function during COVID-19 social distancing compared with the pre-pandemic period. The types of physical activity practiced before and during COVID-19 social distancing measures were assessed. Results Data from 2319 adults were included. Out-of-home endurance, muscle strengthening, combined endurance and muscle strengthening, and stretching activities reduced the risk of subjective memory decline during the pandemic. In terms of physical activities practiced at home, only muscle strengthening did not protect against subjective memory decline. Participants who sustained any type of physical activity at home during the COVID-19 pandemic showed reduced risk for subjective memory decline. Conclusions Physical activity, regardless of the type of activity and location performed, during the time period when COVID-19 social distancing measures were in place can mitigate the effects of the pandemic on subjective memory decline.