Exercising for Even a Few Minutes Each Day Can Have Positive Effects
Studies continue to show that getting enough sleep, following a healthy diet, quitting smoking, managing stress, challenging ourselves mentally and staying physically fit are beneficial for our overall health. Now a study finds it doesn’t take a large amount of physical exercise each day to protect our brain health as we age. The article was published in the journal, Age and Ageing, which showed that as little as 5 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily can help keep the aging brain healthy.
Experts explain as we grow older, the outer layer of our brain known as the cortex becomes thinner and the brain typically starts producing lower levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which can contribute to cognitive decline. Audrey M. Collins, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Neuroscience at the AdventHealth Research Institute in Florida, explains, “Physical activity is a lifestyle behavior that may play a role in not only the prevention and attenuation of cognitive decline, but the promotion of cognitive function in late life.”
The study found participants who did moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily had significantly better brain processing speed, short-term memory and better executive function, which is the ability to plan and focus. However, Collins says the study also discovered the biggest cognitive gain came from those participants who changed their daily behavior from not doing any moderate to vigorous physical exercise to exercising at least five minutes a day.
Gary Small, MD, chair of psychiatry for Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey and author of more than a dozen books on brain health and aging, commented on the study by saying it is important for people to exert themselves enough to push the heart and lungs to pump oxygen and nutrient to the brain. It should also be reassuring to people that they do not have to become triathletes to maintain good health.
MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers independent living and assisted living for carefree retirement years with built-in companionship, predictable budgeting, all-day dining and a host of wellness programs and activities. For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood offers all-inclusive memory care. Contact us or visit our website for more information.
MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a welcoming atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria, AZ. Contact our team to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.