Researchers have pointed to the ability of 20 minutes of exercise to slow down dementia

A recent study by the Center for Public Health and Aging at the Texas A&M University School of Public Health found that the development of dementia in older adults with mild cognitive impairment may decrease with 20 minutes of physical exercise twice a week. This was reported on December 3 by Medical Xpress magazine.

"The benefits of exercise for this group have been known for a long time, but using a longitudinal study design and analyzing different levels of activity, we were able to determine the amount and duration needed to prevent further deterioration," said the study's lead author, Dr. Jeonju "Jay" Lee.

He added that mild cognitive impairment is a loss of memory or other thought processes that is noticeable in everyday life, but does not affect it. This is considered one of the stages on the road to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, but the link is not always obvious.

Although people with mild cognitive impairment are at greater risk of developing dementia, for some the condition remains stable or may improve, while for others the disease progresses.

"Our age and how well our brain worked initially play a role. In addition, solving puzzles, communicating with other people, and maintaining physical activity can help slow down or even stop the process," Lee added.

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As part of the study, the researchers analyzed longitudinal data on the relationship between physical activity and dementia, assessed mild cognitive impairment according to three types of cognitive abilities (memory, working memory, attention, and information processing speed).

The study involved 9,714 people, of whom 68.6% were men and 31.4% were women. The average age of the participants was 78, more than half were married, and 42% were widowed or divorced. 8% of the participants were diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or dementia during the study period. A group of scientists analyzed how often participants engaged in 21 types of activities, including sports.

"Older people who maintained a moderate level of physical activity had a significantly lower risk of developing dementia over time, while less active people had virtually no benefit. This highlights the importance of regular movements such as walking as a simple and effective strategy for maintaining brain health," said study co—author Junhyeon "Paul" Kim.

In addition, the study showed that the risk of developing dementia increases with age, while a higher level of education and cognitive function reduces the risk. Lead author Lee expressed hope that the new knowledge would help in the development of new therapeutic approaches for this group.

On November 17, Science Daily magazine reported a 39% reduction in the risk of dementia with daily music listening. According to the publication, older people who listen to music every day are also 17% less likely to experience cognitive impairments.,

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