Researchers have uncovered the role of intense exercise in improving sleep in dementia

Both light and intense physical activity reduces sleep disorders in elderly people with moderate cognitive impairments. This was reported on May 3 in the journal Medical Xpress.

For the study, the researchers used Oura Ring smart rings: the devices recorded the motor activity of seven elderly residents of a long-term care facility for 14 days. The load was divided into light, moderate and intense according to the level of metabolic equivalent. Restless sleep was determined by a combination of indicators: physical activity, pulse jumps and changes in skin temperature.

Light activity also improved sleep quality, although to a much lesser extent. Moderate exercise did not have a statistically significant effect. Scientists recognize the limitations of the work — first of all, the small sample and the lack of a breakdown by type of activity (cardio or strength exercises) — but they are convinced that the results fill an important gap in the study of the problem.

An expert in the field of digital healthcare and co-author of the study, Junju Lee, emphasized the fundamental difference between the new work and previous ones: most studies in this area were based on self-reports from patients, which significantly reduces the accuracy of data in people with cognitive impairments. The use of objective wearable devices has allowed for more reliable results.

According to scientists, by 2060, the number of elderly Americans with moderate cognitive impairment will grow by 76% — from 8-10 million to more than 21 million people. Group walks, swimming classes, and other accessible physical activity formats can become a practical and long-term tool for maintaining quality of life.

On March 9, Medical Xpress reported on brain training methods and reducing the risk of dementia. According to the researchers, a variety of activities and habits can serve as a kind of cognitive training, helping to maintain mental abilities with age.