In the search for ways to maintain brain health as we age, much has been said about anti-aging creams and supplements that promise to fight cognitive decline. However, a recent study emphasizes the importance of everyday activities in promoting brain function—some of which may be more beneficial than others.
Published in The Journals of Gerontology, the study, led by researchers at the University of South Australia, examines how different sedentary activities influence cognitive abilities. The findings suggest that mentally stimulating and socially engaging activities, such as reading or playing cards, offer significant benefits for memory and cognitive function. In contrast, passive activities, notably watching television, may have negative effects on brain health.
The research focused on 397 adults aged 60 to 70, all of whom had no dementia diagnosis. Participants were asked to self-report their activities and sleep patterns over a two-day period using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents (MARCA) questionnaire. This tool, initially developed to track the time use of children, allowed individuals to select from a range of activities including sleep, household chores, screen time, social interactions, and quiet time.
The study also employed a cognitive assessment that measured five key domains: memory, attention/orientation, language, fluency, and visuospatial abilities. The results were telling: participants who engaged in activities requiring social interaction or mental effort, such as reading or listening to music, showed improved cognitive scores. On the other hand, those who spent time watching TV or playing video games had lower scores.
This aligns with additional findings from the National Institute on Aging (NIA), which underscores the importance of a healthy lifestyle for brain function. A study funded by the NIA, involving nearly 3,000 older adults, highlighted that regular physical activity, alongside moderation in alcohol consumption and smoking, can significantly benefit the aging brain.
Though the study primarily relied on self-reported data, its conclusions reinforce the importance of maintaining both mental and physical engagement for cognitive health. The key takeaway is clear: staying active, mentally and socially, is essential for preserving a healthy mind as we age.
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