Small workouts during the week are good for memory

The data of almost 10,000 people who participated in the long-term national Health and Aging study was analyzed. All participants’ memory, attention, and speed of thinking were assessed, and then these indicators were compared with their level of physical activity. It turned out that people who moved at least moderately were noticeably less likely to switch from mild memory impairments to dementia. Even regular walks several times a week helped to maintain cognitive functions.

The researchers emphasize that mild cognitive impairment is not a sentence. Some people’s condition worsens over time, while others remain stable or even improve. This is influenced not only by age, but also by how active a person is, whether they maintain social contacts, and whether they stimulate the brain with tasks and communication.

The risk of dementia increases with age, but decreases with higher levels of education and good initial memory. In this case, the gender of a person does not matter. Nevertheless, moderate activity is a simple and affordable action that helps reduce risks even at a very old age.

The authors of the study hope that their results will help create new support programs for the elderly. They note that today more and more people aged 45+ notice memory impairment, and such data can become the basis for modern prevention. Even small steps, such as regular walks or short workouts, can give the brain an extra chance to stay clear for longer.