The holiday season is a time for relaxation and enjoyment, but have you ever considered how your choice of activities could impact your long-term brain health? According to researchers at the University of South Australia, the type of sedentary behavior you engage in can have significant implications for cognitive function.
A recent study examined the 24-hour activity patterns of 397 older adults (aged 60+) and found that not all sedentary behaviors are created equal when it comes to brain health. Specifically, activities that are socially or mentally stimulating, such as reading, listening to music, or chatting with others, were found to be beneficial for memory and thinking abilities. On the other hand, activities like watching TV or playing video games were found to have a negative impact on cognitive function.
Dr. Maddison Mellow, a researcher at UniSA, explains that the context of an activity can alter its effects on cognitive function. “We found that sedentary behaviors which promote mental stimulation or social engagement are beneficial for cognitive function, whereas others like watching TV or gaming have a negative effect,” says Dr. Mellow. This insight is particularly important considering that modifiable lifestyle factors could prevent up to 45% of dementia cases.
In Australia alone, about 411,100 people are living with dementia, with nearly two-thirds being women. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that over 55 million people have dementia, with 10 million new cases each year. With such staggering numbers, it’s crucial to prioritize activities that support brain health.
As the holiday season approaches, Dr. Mellow offers some advice for those looking to indulge in sedentary activities like movie marathons. “To achieve the best brain health and physical health benefits, prioritize movement that’s enjoyable and gets the heart rate up,” she suggests. Even small changes, like breaking up TV time with physical activity or reading, can have a positive impact on cognitive function.
So, whether you’re unwinding with a Christmas movie marathon or catching up on your favorite TV show, remember to incorporate activities that stimulate your mind and engage your social connections. By making small changes to your sedentary habits, you can work towards improving your brain health and reducing your risk of cognitive decline in the long run.
