For long-term brain health, the elderly They may want to think carefully about how they spend their free time, according to a new study.
Researchers from the University of South Australia evaluated the 24-hour activity patterns of nearly 400 people over the age of 60.
When it comes to brain health, the study found that the context or type of activity that individuals engage in matters, SWNS reported.
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Some sedentary behaviors are better for Cognitive function Who else, according to the results published in the Journal of Gerontology Series A.
Mentally stimulating behaviors Like readingThe study indicated that listening to music, praying, making and playing a musical instrument – in addition to social behaviors such as chatting with others – are beneficial for memory and thinking abilities.
A new study suggests that mentally stimulating behaviors such as reading, listening to music, praying, crafting and playing musical instruments are beneficial for memory and thinking abilities. (Istock)
The research team pointed to “valuable insights” that could help reduce cases of cognitive impairment. More passive activities, such as playing video games or watching television, do not provide the same benefits as reading. Prayer and other activitiesThey pointed out.
More than 55 million people around the world suffer from dementia, according to World Health Organization estimates. 10 million new cases are diagnosed every year.
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Dr Madison Mello, a researcher at the University of South Australia, said not all sedentary behaviors are created equal when it comes to memory and cognitive health.
“The context of an activity changes how it relates to cognitive function, as different activities provide different levels of cognitive stimulation and social engagement.” (Istock)
“In this research, we found that the context of an activity changes how it relates to cognitive function, with different activities providing different levels of cognitive stimulation and social engagement,” she said.
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Scientists “already know that physical activity is a powerful protection against the risk of dementia, and this should be prioritized if you're trying it,” she said. Improve your brain health“, as reported by SWNS.
“Even small time swaps of 5 minutes can be helpful.”
“But until now, we have not directly explored whether we can benefit our brain health by replacing one sedentary activity with another.”
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She continued, “Although the 'move more, sit less' message certainly applies to heart and brain health, our research shows that a more nuanced approach is needed when it comes to thinking about the relationship between sedentary behaviors and cognitive function.”
It is wise to “prioritize fun and enjoyable movement Heart rate Up,” she also said.
“Even small time swaps of 5 minutes can help.”
“A more nuanced approach is needed when it comes to thinking about the relationship between sedentary behaviors and cognitive function.” (Istock)
A recent study published by the RAND Corporation in California also identified several key indicators that occur around age 60 and that are likely to lead to cognitive impairment and dementia in individuals. At 80 years oldAs previously reported by Fox News Digital.
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Researchers evaluated 181 potential risk factors, including demographics, socioeconomic status, lifestyle, health behaviors, health history, psychosocial factors, and more.
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The list of predictors, according to the RAND Corporation, included “no exercise at all” and “low participation in hobbies.”
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The results of the study indicate that “Maintain good physical fitness “Mental health is beneficial not only for staying fit, but also for staying sharp and delaying cognitive decline,” study co-author Peter Houdomet, an economist at the RAND Corporation in California, told Fox News Digital.
Fox News Digital's Melissa Ruddy contributed reporting.
