Exercise Can Reduce Your Risk of Developing Dementia

According to the Alzheimer’s Society (AS), “Regular physical activity is one of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of developing dementia.”

In contrast, lack of exercise is a primary factor in the development of the disease. “Evidence is strong enough to show that it increases a person’s risk of developing dementia,” indicates the AS.

They added that research studies involving middle age to older populations that engaged in physical activity reported improved thinking, memory, and reduction of risk of developing dementia.

So, where to start?

The AS suggests making exercise a part of your overall lifestyle.  They say, “A lifelong approach to good health is the best way to lower your risk.”

They continue, “It has been shown that going from being inactive to doing some amount of exercise has the biggest impact. Sustaining physical activity throughout midlife also seems to have the best effect on reducing dementia risk.”

You can also reduce your risk in older years too, according to a study that investigated quantity of exercise in seniors. The AS indicates, “The one’s who exercised the least (the bottom 100%) were more than twice as likely to develop Alzeimer’s Disease as the ones who exercised the most (the top 10%).”

Exercise options include aerobics which increases your heart rate, brisk walks, gardening, strength building, gentle yoga or tai chi, swimming, stationary bike, or dance classes. You can make it interesting and do a combination or change it up each week.

The key is get moving several times a week for at least 20 to 30 minutes, and at a pace that’s comfortable for you. You can also get a friend to join you to help keep you motivated.

Spring is a great time to start if you haven’t already!