Scientists have found a way to maintain physical strength in old age through hobbies

Social activity and mental stress help older people stay physically fit longer and avoid age-related decline. This was reported by Medical Xpress magazine on May 25.

For 11 years, Australian scientists observed 12,862 people over the age of 70 who, at the time of the start of the experiment, had no serious heart disease or signs of dementia. The researchers assessed how 19 different activities affect the process of biological aging and the development of physical fragility, a condition in which the body finds it difficult to recover from illness and injury.

In the course of the work, the scientists measured the cognitive functions of the participants, their walking speed and hand grip strength. It turned out that pensioners who were members of clubs or public organizations were 3% less likely to become infirm. Health promotion was also facilitated by the presence of a wide network of contacts — at least four relatives or friends to whom you can turn for help.

According to the researchers, activities such as communication and learning helped to maintain physical strength for a longer period of time. Mental stimulation, including playing cards, chess, or solving puzzles, reduced the risk of developing infirmity by about 4%, while participation in educational classes and computer use accounted for 2%.

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At the same time, the authors noted gender differences: the most pronounced effect was observed in women, whose likelihood of premature physical decline decreased by 3-6%. No similar pattern was found among men.

The authors of the study emphasize that public investments in accessible environments — libraries and community centers with ramps and handrails — are extremely important for the involvement of older citizens in social life. As practical recommendations, scientists advise pensioners to communicate regularly with their loved ones, give priority to reading and intellectual games, as well as visit theaters and museums.

On May 11, Medical Xpress reported on the connection of involvement in art with the slowing down of biological aging. According to the study, people who engage in creative activities or attend cultural events at least once a week age 4% slower compared to those who rarely pay attention to it.