New research has suggested that light exercises such as stretching and balance training can be just as effective as vigorous workouts for supporting brain health.
The study’s findings suggest that regular low-intensity exercise may play a key role in helping older adults slow or delay cognitive decline — offering encouraging news for those at risk of dementia or suffering from Alzheimer’s.
The study was conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Diego, and Wake Forest University and published as two papers in Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
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The study was conducted in sedentary older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment, which is a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s dementia. The study describes the results of the EXERT study (Exercise in Adults with Mild Memory Problems).
The trial included 300 adults who were divided into two training groups: one did moderate-to-high-intensity aerobic training, and the other participated in low-intensity workouts. The study showed that participation in either exercise group was associated with significantly less cognitive decline over 12 months than in individuals outside the study.
Interestingly, while researchers anticipated some cognitive decline throughout the study, cognitive function in both exercise groups remained stable. This suggests that both low- and moderate-intensity exercise may help slow the progression of memory loss.
(With inputs from ANI)
