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Moving Towards a Healthier Brain: How Everyday Movement Can Delay Dementia

Writer's picture: Ronald Allan CalusteRonald Allan Caluste


Dementia, a progressive neurological disorder, can significantly impact cognitive function and quality of life. While there's no cure, emerging research strongly suggests that regular physical activity, even in the form of everyday movement, can play a crucial role in delaying its onset and slowing its progression.   


The Power of Everyday Movement:

We often think of exercise as structured activities like jogging or weightlifting. However, for dementia prevention, "movement" encompasses a broader range of activities:

  • Household Chores:

    • Activities like cleaning, gardening, and yard work can significantly increase physical activity levels.   

    • These tasks involve a combination of physical exertion, such as lifting, bending, and reaching, with cognitive engagement, such as planning and problem-solving.

  • Walking:

    • Short walks around the neighborhood, to the store, or during lunch breaks can significantly increase daily step count.   

    • Walking can also provide opportunities for social interaction and enjoyment of nature.   

  • Stair Climbing:

    • Opting for the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible provides a simple yet effective way to increase physical activity throughout the day.   

  • Gardening:

    • Gardening combines physical activity with mental engagement, requiring planning, problem-solving, and hand-eye coordination.   

  • Playing with Pets:

    • Walking a dog or playing with a cat can provide both physical and social stimulation.   



How Everyday Movement Benefits Brain Health:

  • Increased Blood Flow: Even mild physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering essential oxygen and nutrients that nourish brain cells.   

  • Reduced Inflammation: Regular physical activity, even in small doses, helps reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the brain. Chronic inflammation is linked to the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease.   

  • Improved Cognitive Function:

    • Studies have shown that increased physical activity throughout the day can enhance cognitive function, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.   

    • Everyday movement can help improve coordination, balance, and reaction time, which are essential for maintaining independence.   

  • Mood Enhancement:

    • Physical activity releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.   

    • Engaging in enjoyable activities like gardening or walking can reduce stress and improve overall well-being.   

  • Social Interaction:

    • Many forms of everyday movement, such as walking with a friend or gardening with neighbors, provide opportunities for social interaction and connection.   

Making Movement a Part of Daily Life:

  • Incorporate movement into daily routines: Take the stairs, park further away from the entrance, and walk during your lunch break.

  • Find enjoyable activities: Choose activities that you find enjoyable and are likely to stick with in the long term.

  • Make it social:

    • Join a walking group, participate in community gardening projects, or play with pets.

    • Social interaction can enhance the benefits of physical activity.   


By incorporating more movement into our daily lives through simple activities like household chores, gardening, and walking, we can significantly improve our brain health and potentially reduce our risk of dementia. Remember, every step counts towards a healthier brain and a brighter future.   


Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.


References:


Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.

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