A new study led by Dr. Laura Baker reveals that both low and moderate-high intensity exercise can significantly reduce cognitive decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The EXERT trial enrolled 296 participants with a long duration of 12 months. It underscored the importance of physical activity for maintaining cognitive health as we grow older.
The EXERT study also examined the impact of regular exercise on cognitive function. It provided a highly controlled look specifically at sedentary older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Dr. Baker’s results show that study participants who exercised at a low level or moderate-high intensity level lost less brain volume. This was most noticeably the case in key areas such as the prefrontal cortex, especially compared to people who were completely sedentary.
“For Dr. Baker, the message is clear that older adults need to find ways to be physically active every day as part of their routine.” “Good brain health involves exercising daily,” stated Dr. Clifford Segil, another expert in the field. He recommends that patients should leave their homes at least twice a day to walk around the block or engage in some form of exercise.
“I share with my patients to leave their homes at least twice daily at 10:00 am and then 2:00 pm and at least walk around the block or do some exercise.” – Clifford Segil, DO
The study’s findings suggest that long-term consistent exercise helps maintain cognitive function over a 12-month period. This is true regardless of the intensity of the exercise. Dr. Baker’s main message was that physical activity is the best thing you can do for your cardiovascular system! He quibbled that it additionally enhances cerebrovascular wellbeing, counteracting the danger of memory misfortune associated with dementia.
“Exercise increases blood flow throughout your body and to your brain,” Dr. Segil explained, underscoring the connection between physical health and cognitive function. He noted that greater blood circulation might reduce the threat of vascular or multi-infarct dementia. This effect could be even more pronounced than its effect on Alzheimer’s disease.
“The increased blood flow to the brain may decrease one form of dementia called vascular or multi-infarct dementia more than Alzheimer’s dementia.” – Clifford Segil, DO
Lycia Neumann, PhD, MPA, explains that MCI is a key risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. That’s why she advocates for the results of the EXERT study. In her view, lifestyle changes can at least arrest cognitive decline, even among people who have the genetic markers for it.
“As the population ages, we must remember that lifestyle/behavioral factors can help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline, and possibly dementia, even when a person has a genetic risk factor.” – Lycia Neumann, PhD, MPA
Dr. Baker’s research highlights individual variability in cognitive decline rates among older adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease. She noted that co-morbidities such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes can accelerate cognitive decline. With regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and social interaction, dementia’s progression can be slowed.
“Although we do not yet know how to ‘cure’ Alzheimer’s disease, we are learning how to slow progression of memory decline so that affected individuals may have extended quality life experiences,” – Laura Baker, PhD
The results from the EXERT study counter past beliefs that only high-intensity workouts offer cognitive perks. On the call, Dr. Baker highlighted the positive effects of consistent aerobic activity on brain health. He suggests exercising three to four days a week for 30 to 45 minutes per session.
“In the past, moderate-high intensity exercise has been touted as necessary for cognitive benefit; however, this level of intensity may not be attainable for all older individuals. Our findings suggest that any exercise, if completed regularly (three to four times per week for about 30-45 minutes), may be beneficial for brain health,” – Laura Baker, PhD
Dr. Aladdin Shadyab, senior director of the scientific affairs at the Alzheimer’s Association, provided additional perspectives on cognitive decline. He noted that older adults with memory deficits are at higher risk for the more rapid rate of brain volume loss.
“Older adults with a memory impairment that worsens over time generally have faster rates of brain volume loss.” – Aladdin Shadyab, PhD, MPH
Given these encouraging findings, researchers urge older adults to remain physically active as a means of safeguarding their cognitive health. Organizing everyday life around opportunities for education and social engagement are just as crucial to keeping minds sharp.
“Scientifically sound studies like these add to our understanding and knowledge of the connection between physical activity and brain health,” – Lycia Neumann, PhD, MPA
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