Reports have revealed that staying active in older age can help prevent damaging brain conditions, such as Alzheimer’s. The research found that simply walking every day can help prevent memory loss and other mental decline that is often linked with ageing.
The more steps that someone takes was shown to impact their performance on memory tasks for the better. Whilst those who preferred to stay on the sofa all day performed worse. These findings strongly indicate that being physically active, even in small ways, do help extent long-term memory,
“According to the US researchers these findings demonstrate that the effects of physical activity extend to long-term memory – the same type of memory that is hit by ageing and brain conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.” – Sunday Express.
A report on The Telegraph website states that regular, moderate exercise is the number one factor which could help prevent the onset of dementia. In the report, Prof. Brayne is quoted as suggesting:
“Just try and move more, from taking a 20-minute walk on most days to having a swim. Doing a sport is particularly helpful as it also involves social engagement, which is hugely important.” – Prof. Brayne.
Staying active is great, but you will also need to ensure that your lifestyle as a whole is a healthy one. For example you should avoid smoking, watch your diet and also maintain your cognitive functions by learning new skills and hobbies.
Great ways of staying active
As seen in the research findings, really simple lifestyle changes can make huge improvements to mental health in older age. Staying active is all about frequently moving our bodies throughout the ageing process. The exercise can be gentle if more exhausting exercise isn’t enjoyable, or possible.
Here are some exercises to try:
- Walking – It’s so simple, but many of us are guilty of not doing enough. How could you walk more today?
- Jogging – Taking a short jog is a great hobby to have each morning. Start your day with movement that gets you out exploring your local area, whilst raising your heart rate.
- Taking The Stairs – Always choose the stairs over the elevator if you can. Your daily step count will go up dramatically.
- Gardening – Doing chores will keep you busy and moving. Gardening is perfect since it can be hard work and involves a lot of movement.
- Dancing – Joining a dance class can be a fun way to exercise without feeling like a workout at all!
- Sports – Golf is a common favourite form of exercise for older people. It’s fun, social and involves lots of walking and fresh air, which is great.
Staying active and safe in the garden
Telecare Alarms have been designed specifically for the elderly and will still work outside in the garden. The Telecare pendant, also known as the MyAmie Pendant, has a range of around 100 metres.
This means that you can keep wearing your pendant, around the neck or wrist, whilst enjoying the sunshine. Whether you are a keen gardener, sunbather or simply like to have fun with your grandchildren, you can do so with the knowledge that you can push your pendant in an emergency.
For more information please visit the Telecare home page or give our team a call today on 0800 635 7000. A member of the team will be on-hand to answer any questions or concerns that you may have about our service.
Please note that this article was originally published on December 2, 2015 and updated on June 16, 2017
