Warding off dementia means more reading, praying and listening to music: study
As we age, taking care of our brain health becomes increasingly important. A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of South Australia has shed light on the impact of different sedentary activities on cognitive function in older adults. The study, which looked at the 24-hour activity patterns of nearly 400 individuals over the age of 60, found that not all sedentary behaviors are created equal when it comes to brain health.
The researchers discovered that mentally stimulating activities such as reading, listening to music, crafting, playing a musical instrument, and socializing with others were beneficial for memory and thinking abilities. On the other hand, more passive activities like playing video games or watching TV did not offer the same cognitive benefits. These findings provide valuable insights that could help reduce instances of cognitive impairment in older adults.
Dr. Maddison Mellow, one of the researchers involved in the study, emphasized the importance of the context of an activity when it comes to cognitive function. She explained that different activities provide varying levels of cognitive stimulation and social engagement, which can impact brain health. While physical activity is known to be a strong protector against dementia risk, Dr. Mellow suggested that swapping sedentary activities for more mentally stimulating ones could also have a positive effect on cognitive function.
The research team’s findings align with a recent study published by the RAND Corporation in California, which identified predictors around age 60 that could lead to cognitive impairment and dementia by age 80. Factors such as never exercising and low engagement in hobbies were among the predictors associated with cognitive decline.
Maintaining good physical and mental health is not only important for staying in shape but also for staying sharp and delaying cognitive decline. By prioritizing activities that are both enjoyable and mentally stimulating, older adults can take proactive steps to protect their brain health as they age.
In conclusion, the key takeaway from these studies is that how we spend our downtime can have a significant impact on our long-term brain health. By engaging in activities that challenge our minds and foster social connections, we can support cognitive function and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline in later life. It’s never too late to prioritize brain health and make small changes that can have a big impact on our overall well-being.
