Dementia affects millions, and future predictions expect those numbers to jump as the population continues to age. A new study, however, suggests this condition may not be inevitable.
New research published in Neurology links several daily activities that may lower the risk for dementia, which likely comes as great news to you.
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Several previous studies have linked leisure activities with better heart health and individual perceptions of well-being. However, evidence linking activities with dementia risk has been a little murkier, with findings often conflicting.
But researchers in this new study found that leisure activities like crafts, playing sports, or volunteering, among other things, were associated with a lower risk for dementia.
The study reviewed 38 existing studies that included more than 2 million people who did not have dementia. Of them, 74,700 went on to develop the condition during a three-year follow-up period.
After controlling for factors like age, gender, and education, they found that people who engaged in leisure activities had a 17 percent lower chance of dementia than people who didn’t.
They found that mental activities like reading, writing for pleasure, watching TV, listening to the radio/music, playing games or instruments, using a computer, or making crafts, were linked with a 23 percent lower risk for dementia.
Physical activities like walking, running, swimming, cycling, weight lifting, yoga, sports, and dancing were associated with a 17 percent lower risk.
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Lastly, they found that engaging in social activities like staying in touch with friends, taking classes, joining clubs, volunteering, spending time with relatives or friends, or attending church, may lower the risk by 7 percent.
Of course, it is important to note that the study does not prove these leisure activities reduce the risk of, or prevent, dementia, just that there may be an association.
Some, or many, of these activities can easily fit into most people’s lifestyles. So, if you want to potentially reduce your risk for dementia, try picking some up. Also, take care of your heart and do your best to eat a healthful diet.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
