Although scientists have always recommended physical activity to keep the brain healthy, research now shows that regular stretching and movement exercises can help older people with mild memory problems.
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine recruited 300 adults with mild cognitive impairment to perform aerobic, stretching and balance exercises. The groups were divided based on these two exercises, twice a week with a personal trainer, and trained twice a week on their own over a period of 12 months.
The study was presented Tuesday at the 2022 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in San Diego, California. All participants had some form of mild cognitive impairment, an early stage of dementia, and lived a sedentary lifestyle.
In total, both groups completed 31,000 exercise sessions, said study author Laura Baker. By the end of the experiment, none of the group members had experienced cognitive decline, while a control group with similar participants with mild cognitive impairment who were not working declined.
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Baker told the Associated Press that the study results indicate that “this is doable for everyone,” especially for older people who have a limited exercise routine. It also recommends that exercise “must be part of prevention strategies” for older people who are already at risk.
Maria Carrillo, the Alzheimer’s Association’s chief scientist, told the AP that past research has shown that daily physical activity has helped reduce inflammation in the brain and increases the amount of blood that it flows
Baker also noted that having a social group or support network was crucial for older participants.
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According to the Associated Press, participants were routinely supported while being active at their YMCA facilities, and regular video call sessions were organized after Covid-19 closed gyms.