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Beyond Exercise: New Dementia Defense Revealed
20 Feb
Summary
- Mental activity, not physical, strongly predicts slower cognitive decline in older adults.
- Diverse activities like reading, puzzles, and socializing protect the brain.
- Starting exercise late offers slim prospects for slowing cognitive decline.
Research indicates that for adults over 50, mental stimulation is a stronger predictor of slower cognitive decline than physical exercise. A decade-long study followed over 20,000 adults, finding that activities like reading, writing, playing games, and using computers were crucial for maintaining cognitive health.
Social engagement, including spending time with friends and family and participating in organizations, also plays a vital role. Researchers recommend a diverse routine, balancing cognitive, social, and physical activities, as this varied approach showed the most significant benefits.
While physical activity is essential for overall health, its cognitive benefits appear to be established earlier in life. For those over 50, beginning exercise late offers minimal prospects for slowing cognitive decline. The protective effects of consistent mental engagement are substantial, comparable to mitigating the cognitive toll of conditions like diabetes or smoking.
