Staying Sharp

You might not be surprised as you age if your vision becomes somewhat blurrier, your hearing becomes slightly duller, your joints become slightly sore, and your thinking becomes slightly slower.

What if, though, that final stage is optional?

Dementia is not a natural aspect of ageing. By following the proper dietary and lifestyle recommendations, certain forms can be avoided or even reversed.

Lack of physical activity has been related to three disorders that can increase your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, according to research (diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity). Increased exercise may reduce those odds.

How Is Exercise Beneficial?

Your brain's cell structure is kept constant by a protein known as tau. It has been related to dementia and Alzheimer's at higher levels.

According to a Wake Forest University study, aerobic activity, which increases your heart rate and causes you to breathe more quickly, can lower your tau levels.

The study also demonstrated that exercise increases blood flow to regions of the brain associated with processing and memory. That may be beneficial for planning, becoming organised, and maintaining focus.

What to Do First

Your body and mind can benefit from anything you do. You are not required to compete in triathlons or run marathons. Simply increasing your movement will help. You can start with whatever kind of activity you enjoy, like walking, jogging, biking, or swimming. Things like yoga and tai chi are good options, too, because they work your body and relax your mind.

As you age, it’s also important to do toning and stretching. To get stronger and more flexible, you might try:

• Squats
• Yoga
• Modified push-ups (with your knees on the ground)
• Pilates

Start with small, easy moves and do more as you’re able.