The researchers weren’t
surprised when they saw cognitive benefits in individual exercisers compared to
their sedentary peers. No news there. However, they were intrigued that the
group exercisers fared far better.
"Exercise is
manageable for many older people, and we saw cognitive benefits from it
compared with those who don't exercise," explained study senior author
Tomohiro Okura, a professor at the University of Tsukuba in Japan
People who exercised alone
two or more times each week decreased their risk of developing impaired
thinking or learning skills by more than 15 percent. But those who exercised in
a group doubled those benefits!
Group Exercise Doubles
Cognitive Benefits
"… it's even more
noteworthy that we found exercise's benefits rise -- 14.1 percentage points in
our study -- when performed with others and at least twice a week," Prof.
Okura added. Those who exercised with
others twice or more weekly exhibited a 29 percent decrease in cognitive
decline. That’s double the brain benefits!
"A majority of the
older adults in our study took part in exercise by themselves, and we can see
the cognitive benefits when they do so at least twice a week," Prof. Okura
explained. "Adding in the social element, however, may make regular
exercise all the more preventive. Adopting this habit could be extremely
valuable."
Indeed, research supports
that socializing is right up there with exercise, diet, and sleep when it comes
to healthy aging.
How Company Improves Brain
Function
This study adds to a body
of research showing the significance of strong social ties to brain health. When
you socialize and interact with others while exercising, you are also focusing your
attention and strengthening neural networks.
A recent Johns Hopkins
Study found that socially isolated older adults have a 27 percent higher risk
of developing dementia than older adults who are socially engaged.
“Social connections matter
for our cognitive health and the risk of social isolation is potentially
modifiable for older adults,” notes Dr. Thomas Cudjoe, senior author of the
study.
Whether it’s a fitness
class or a walking group that meets regularly, you’ll experience a bounty of
benefits. Those start with motivation…
Group Exercisers are more
consistent Exercisers
A study found that older
adults are more likely to stick with an exercise program if they do it with
peers their age.
"All of this together
points to the power of social connections," said Dr. Mark Beauchamp, the
study’s lead author. "If you set the environment up so participants feel a
sense of connection or belonging with these other people, then they're more
likely to stick with it."
Other research shows that
having an accountability exercise partner helps with accountability and
frequency. When someone is counting on you to meet them - it’s a lot harder to
skip.
Staying active with others
at the gym is an easy, fun way to enjoy companionship, keep your body fit and
boost your memory, too.
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