Exercise Improves Cognitive Function

We know that regular exercise is important for physical fitness and preserving function, especially as we age, but exercise has also been found to help improve cognitive ability.  Older adults with mild cognitive impairment or who notice changes in cognition can improve brain function by staying physically active.

In a recent review of several studies of the effectiveness of physical exercise on adults with mild cognitive impairment, researchers found that aerobic exercise in particular benefited patients with MCI.  These patients are at high risk of developing dementia.  The review and analysis were published in the January 2018 issue of the International Journal of Nursing Studies.

And even adults who don’t notice changes in their memory, attention or problem solving can improve cognitive function and prevent brain changes that are associated with getting older.  Combining moderate aerobic exercises such as brisk walking or cycling with resistance training, especially for a period of 45 to 60 minutes, appears to have the most benefit.  Exercise has been found to improve cognitive function in both men and women over the age of 50, with or without mild impairment. 

Although older adults may need more time to process information or find their memory may not be quite as sharp as it once was, according to a recent blog post on McMaster University’s Optimal Aging Portal, vocabulary is one cognitive skill that tends to remain constant in old age and may even improve with time.  You can help preserve cognitive ability with brain training games but research has also found that learning a new skill, especially if done in a social setting, can be even more valuable to help older adults remain independent and engaged longer. 

If you notice changes in cognitive function in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to discuss these changes with your doctor as they can be an early symptom of dementia.