New Study Reveals Four Lifestyle Changes to Slow Brain Ageing in Older Adults

As the sun filtered through the trees in a local park, a group of seniors laughed, engaged in conversation, and participated in a gentle exercise routine. Their smiles hinted at the vitality that comes from social interaction and physical activity, a stark contrast to the often somber discussions surrounding dementia and cognitive decline. Recent findings from the Alzheimer’s Association U.S. POINTER study reveal that a combination of simple lifestyle changes can significantly impact brain health for older adults at risk of dementia.

Interventions to Slow Brain Ageing

The year-long study, which included over 2,000 participants aged 60 to 79 identified as at risk of cognitive decline, tested two distinct lifestyle interventions. These older adults were selected for their sedentary lifestyles, poor diet quality, and family histories of cognitive impairment, making them an ideal group to assess the potential for change.

Participants were divided into two categories:

• Structured Lifestyle Intervention (STR): This group attended 38 meetings over two years and followed a prescribed program that included aerobic, resistance, and stretching exercises. They were guided through the MIND diet, which blends the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet.
• Self-Guided Lifestyle Intervention (SG): Participants in this group attended six team meetings, enabling them to choose their own changes. Though they received encouragement, there was no direct coaching.

After two years, both groups showed improvements in cognitive function, but the STR group outperformed the SG group, underscoring the importance of structure and support in lifestyle changes. “Participants were obtaining cognitive function scores similar to people one to two years younger,” said Laura Baker, a professor of Gerontology and Geriatrics and a lead researcher on the study.

Everyday Changes Make a Difference

This success echoes findings from a wide array of studies indicating that simple, consistent changes can have profound effects on brain health. According to Joanne Pike, president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, “This is a critical public health opportunity. The intervention was effective across diverse groups, showing its applicability and scalability for communities nationwide.”

Baker emphasized that even modest changes can yield significant improvements. While the study does not claim these interventions can prevent Alzheimer’s, it strongly suggests that lifestyle modifications that enhance cognition could postpone the onset of dementia. Heather Snyder, a senior vice president at the Alzheimer’s Association, pointed out, “Complex diseases like Alzheimer’s require combination treatment strategies tailored to individual characteristics.”

Moreover, the study indicates that these lifestyle changes don’t need to be complex to be effective. Even small alterations to daily habits can boost brain health:

• Engage in regular physical exercise.
• Follow a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Participate in cognitive and social activities.
• Monitor and manage heart health.

Underscoring the Importance of Lifestyle

Recent research shows an alarming rise in dementia cases globally, with projections estimating that the number of individuals affected could reach 152 million by 2050. This underscores the urgency of early interventions. Baker’s insights reaffirm the necessity for public health initiatives focusing on healthy living, especially among at-risk populations. “There is an undeniable connection between heart health and brain health,” Baker emphasized.

Furthermore, neurologists recommend a variety of strategies that congregate around a holistic approach to health. This includes managing cholesterol, maintaining eye health, socializing, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol intake, highlighting the interconnectedness of various health domains.

In the wealth of research surrounding dementia, the foundational message remains clear: lifestyle matters. As the authors of the U.S. POINTER study note, “Healthy behavior has a powerful impact on brain health.” As older adults partake in daily activities like exercising in local parks or gathering for meals, they may unconsciously fortify their minds against cognitive decline.

Source: uk.news.yahoo.com