Ageing experts urge older people to remain physically active

An active lifestyle in old age is crucial for keeping the brain healthy and guarding against the onset of conditions like dementia, according to University of Edinburgh research funded by charity Age UK.

The research utilised MRI scans to study brain matter and shrinkage rates in adults over 70 years of age and found that physically active individuals were subject to less negative effects, while recording a greater quantity of grey matter.

Professor James Goodwin, head of research at Age UK, spoke of the findings having far-reaching consequences, saying: “This research is exciting as it provides vital clues as to what impacts the way our brain ages and how we could tackle mental decline. If we can establish definitively that exercise provides protection against mental decline, it could open the door to exercise programmes tailored to the needs of people as they age.

“We already know that exercise is important in reducing our risk of some illnesses that come with ageing, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. This research re-emphasises that it really is never too late to benefit from exercise, so whether it’s a brisk walk to the shops, gardening or competing in a fun run it is crucial that, those of us who can, get active as we grow older.”

Professor Clive Ballard, research director of the Alzheimer’s Society, was also intrigued by the results, saying: “Dementia is one of people’s biggest fears in later life, but there are ways for people to help reduce their risk of developing the condition. Keeping your mind stimulated can be fun, but exercise has been proven to prevent cognitive decline in many studies. This research gives people further reason to get active and workout to ward off dementia.”