Simple exercises like regular walk, jogging can help elderly people keeping their selves away from health problems like dementia. The German Society for Gerontological Psychiatry and Psychotherapy (DGGPP) in Neuss has come up propounding this view.
It is well known that factors like obesity, heavy alcohol consumption and smoking give way to dementia. On the other hand, physical exercise helps keeping dementia away, especially in the elder age. Harping upon the same string Martin Haupt, vice president of DGGPP, says:
Physical activity makes the blood vessels more elastic, helping to decrease blood pressure.
However, this is not for the first time when any study has come up depicting exercise helpful in preventing dementia but several studies conducted have also done the same. Here is a brief look at such studies:-
• Seniors Who Exercise May Prevent Dementia
• Exercise May Prevent Dementia-Like Illnesses
Interestingly, dementia is not the only problem, which exercise staves off, but against several other health problems too regular exercise has been found a potent weapon. For instance, it improves blood circulation level, thus keeps blood pressure level normal, strengthens immune system, fights obesity, etc. here is a list of benefits that regular exercise sprinkles:-
• Reduces the risk of dying prematurely.
• Reduces the risk of dying prematurely from heart disease.
• Reduces the risk of developing diabetes.
• Reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure.
• Helps reduce blood pressure in people who already have high blood pressure.
• Reduces the risk of developing colon cancer.
• Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.
• Helps control weight.
• Helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints.
• Helps older adults become stronger and better able to move about without falling.
• Promotes psychological well-being.
On the basis of these benefits, defining exercise as a panacea won’t be grandiloquent.
Image credit: Worth1000
Via: Playfuls
Comments
I write for a company called Gilbert Guide, a resource for long-term care and everything senior-related. I did a bit of research on this topic for a blog I wrote a few months back, and I highly recommend yoga to combat the signs of aging. I make this recommendation based on both research and past experience! Here’s an excerpt from my blog:
“Inactivity, which is prevalent in old age, contributes to chronic pain, joint stiffness, weakness and depression, and can also cause heart disease and osteoporosis. Seniors generally require a milder form of movement to address the physical decline that accompanies aging. One of the best activities to combat all of these issues, as far as I’m concerned, is yoga. Yoga improves balance, strength, energy and mental clarity through deep, sustained breathing and a series of gentle standing and seated postures.”
http://www.gilbertguide.com/blog/2006/11/21/yoga-for-seniors-stretching-your-memory/
A lot of older people see yoga as a newfangled, new-age idea, but it’s actually a 5,000 year old tradition. I’m not saying trade in your running shoes for a yoga mat…I’m just saying buy both. Your body—and mind—will thank you!
Lori
www.GilbertGuide.com