The holiday season is a time for relaxation and indulgence, but have you ever considered how your choice of activities could impact your long-term brain health? According to researchers at the University of South Australia, the type of sedentary activities you engage in can have implications for cognitive function.
A recent study conducted by the University of South Australia looked at the 24-hour activity patterns of 397 older adults aged 60 and above. The researchers found that not all sedentary behaviors are equal when it comes to brain health. In fact, they discovered that some sedentary activities can be beneficial for memory and thinking abilities, while others can have a negative impact.
Specifically, the study found that socially or mentally stimulating activities such as reading, listening to music, praying, crafting, playing a musical instrument, or chatting with others were beneficial for cognitive function. On the other hand, activities like watching TV or playing video games were found to be detrimental.
Dr. Maddison Mellow, a researcher at UniSA, emphasized the importance of choosing sedentary activities that promote mental stimulation and social engagement for optimal cognitive function. She explained that while physical activity is crucial for brain health, the type of sedentary activity you engage in can also play a significant role in maintaining cognitive function.
With dementia affecting a significant portion of the population globally, the findings of this study are particularly relevant. In Australia alone, about 411,100 people are living with dementia, with nearly two-thirds being women. The World Health Organization estimates that over 55 million people worldwide have dementia, with nearly 10 million new cases each year.
As the holiday season approaches, the researchers recommend prioritizing movement that is enjoyable and gets your heart rate up to reap the benefits for brain health. Even small changes, such as swapping out some TV time for reading or engaging in a cognitively stimulating activity, can have positive effects on cognitive function.
So, as you settle in for a Christmas movie marathon or binge-watch your favorite TV series, remember to incorporate some physical activity or mentally engaging activities to support your brain health. By making small changes and building healthier habits over time, you can reduce your risk of cognitive impairment and improve your overall well-being.
