United States: A recent paper available in the British Journal of Sports Medicine shows how physical activity and fitness are linked with cognitive function in older people. Scientists discovered that enhanced CRF is related to better cognition across people despite the presence of the genetic variations that increase risk for developing Alzheimer’s, as reported by HealthDay.
Study Design and Key Findings
In the cross-sectional study included 650 apparently healthy adults, aged 65-80 years for cardiorespiratory fitness treadmill running tests were conducted and for the assessment of brain function a battery of cognitive tests were given. It was established that participants with elevated fitness level were more proficient in all areas of cognitive functioning than participants with low fitness level, such as processing speed, memory and planning and organizing abilities.
Fitness Benefits Extend to High-Risk Groups
The study also revealed that the benefits of cardio fitness extended beyond age and genetic predispositions. Women, those with fewer years of education, and individuals on beta blockers for hypertension showed even greater improvements in cognitive performance, particularly in processing speed and executive functions.
How Cardio Fitness Protects the Brain
Scientists found that exercise helps the brain to function better because it increases brain blood flow, produces new brain cells and new connections between those cells. Also, being in a good mood, not feeling tired and getting a good night sleep, all proven to result from a good exercise regime, may help to keep the brain in good shape, as reported by HealthDay.
A simple solution
These papers indicate that raising cardiorespiratory fitness might be a critical pathway for maintaining correct cognition and milieu in later life. Exercise could actually prevent some of the negative effects of low education levels or genetics and be one of the best weapons against the gradual deterioration of cognitive function in the elderly and dementia.