5 Exercises That Reduce The Risk Of Dementia
For a long time, experts believed that regular exercise might shield against dementia. But, while they noticed a general trend toward lower risk, the studies on the topic were contradictory. This left researchers to speculate on the optimal frequency, intensity, and form of exercise.
But, in the past few months, three large-scale longitudinal studies have tried to describe exercise characteristics. The best safeguards against dementia are its many forms, levels of intensity, and durations.
These findings corroborate the fact that regular physical activity has a major role in lowering the risk of dementia. Click here to learn more about dementia.
Even non-traditional exercise, such as household tasks, can provide great benefits. Interestingly, it is just as effective in lowering the risk for people who have a history of dementia in their family.
Following are some exercises that can reduce the risk of dementia:
5 Exercises that reduce the risk of dementia
Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are commonly associated with advancing age. But, evidence and research suggest that the onset of this disease in the human brain may occur as early as the twenties.
Obviously, you’re vulnerable, too, if you’re around the same age. There is good news: frequent brain exercises can help reduce the likelihood of acquiring dementia.
Yoga
The advantages of yoga can be experienced without devoting extensive time to the practice. For example, Dementia risk is lowered, and well-being is increased with as little as 20 minutes a day.
There is substantial evidence that both yoga and meditation can have positive effects on mental health. Increased cognitive ability, memory, and concentration are all possible benefits. Similarly, yoga can ease the neurological issues that stress can cause.
Gardening
Rather than just doing a few mental exercises, you may also try gardening if you want to improve your cognitive health. Focusing on the minute elements of gardening can improve your mood and reduce stress for the rest of the day.
People often experience increased calm and contentment after engaging in gardening. When you’re in a better mood, you’re more able to concentrate, think clearly, and generally improve your mental health.
Dance
If you’d rather not go to the gym every day, you can substitute days of exercise with dance practice. Researchers found that dance slowed the progression of dementia.
Dancing is a great way to move your mind and improve your memory and concentration. So then, why not give it a shot?
Walking
The best part about walking is that it offers physical health benefits as well as mental health benefits. Get at least 20–25 minutes of moderate exercise every day, such as walking, jogging, or brisk walking.
You can walk in your yard or patio while doing housework, errands, or shopping. There is a direct correlation between increased oxygen to the brain and enhanced cognitive and physical abilities.
Tai Chi
Exercise in the form of tai chi entails a series of slow, steady motions performed in tandem with deep breathing. This method sometimes referred to as “meditation in motion,” is great for improving coordination and overall wellness.
One of Tai chi’s many benefits is a lower stress level, which has been linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
How Can Exercise Benefit People With Dementia?
People with dementia benefit greatly from physical activity, so it’s recommended that they keep it up for as long as possible. It can aid in avoiding inactivity-related health issues like muscle weakening and mobility impairments.
It can boost mood, encourage regular sleep and wake times, and boost engagement in daily life.
People with dementia often suffer elevated stress and depression levels. Regular exercise might help alleviate these symptoms. They could get solace in regular workouts like walking or cycling. This eliminates the need for them to over-analyze their next steps.
Fewer than 20% of those over the age of 65 are active, and those with dementia are considerably less likely to meet the recommended levels of activity.
People with dementia who begin an exercise routine when their disease is still mild are more likely to stick with it as their condition worsens, maximizing the health advantages for as long as possible.
Families, caregivers, and service providers can help dementia patients exercise. Family and friends can aid it, and a qualified trainer supervises a well-structured exercise program.
The program needs to have the right amount of aerobic exercise, strength training, flexibility training, and balance exercises.
Summary
The prospect of developing dementia is terrifying for anyone. Unfortunately, there is no way to completely eliminate your risk of developing dementia. But modest preventative actions, such as exercising regularly, can make a significant difference.