Behavior Change and Health News
Study Indicates Physical Activity May Help Reduce Mental Decline in Older Women
A study published in the Sept 22-29 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association indicates that long-term regular physical activity, including walking, may improve mental function and reduce cognitive decline in older women.
The subjects involved in the Nurses Health Study, 18,766 women aged 71 to 80, reported their physical activity from 1986. Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health conducted cognitive assessments of the subjects via telephone between 1995 and 2003. These included tests for general mental function, memory, attention, and category fluency (e.g., naming as many animals or fruits as possible in a minute).
The researchers analyzed the physical activity and cognitive assessments. The women were divided into five groups according to their average physical activity levels.
Higher levels of activity were found to be associated with better cognitive performance. Women in the category of highest physical activity had a 20% lower risk of cognitive impairment than women in the category of lowest activity. Additionally, the women who walked for a minimum of 90 minutes per week also had higher cognitive scores than those who walked less than 40 minutes per week.
The researchers concluded that long-term regular physical activity is associated with significantly better mental function and less cognitive decline in older women.
Active Living Every Day encourages older and sedentary adults to increase activity at their own pace, taking into account each person’s level of readiness to change, physical ability, and interests. Active Living Every Day emphasizes moderate-intensity activity (such as walking), fitting activity into everyday situations, and personalizing programs to address the daily struggles that often hinder active lifestyles. Trained facilitators guide participants along the way, making it a safe alternative to traditional exercise programs. For more information, contact Michelle Maloney at 217-351-5076 ext 2522 or michellem@hkusa.com.
Source
Jennifer Weuve, ScD; Jae Hee Kang, ScD; JoAnn E. Manson, MD; Monique M. B. Breteler, MD; James H. Ware, PhD; Francine Grodstein, ScD. Physical activity, including walking, and cognitive function in older women. 2004. Journal of the American Medical Association 292:1454-1461.
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