TLDR:
- Study finds that regular exercise can improve mental health and cognitive function in older adults.
- Researchers recommend incorporating both aerobic and resistance training for the best results.
A recent study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity has found that regular exercise can have significant benefits for mental health and cognitive function in older adults. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois, looked at the effects of various types of exercise on a group of adults aged 60 and older.
The participants were divided into three groups: one that engaged in aerobic exercise such as walking or jogging, one that did resistance training with weights, and one that did a combination of both. The researchers found that all three groups showed improvements in cognitive function after just six months of regular exercise.
According to the study’s lead author, Dr. John Smith, the findings suggest that incorporating a variety of exercises into one’s routine can have the most significant impact on mental health and cognitive function. “We found that a combination of aerobic and resistance training was the most effective in improving cognitive function in older adults,” he said.
In addition to improvements in cognitive function, the researchers also observed positive changes in mood and overall mental well-being among the participants. This suggests that exercise may be a simple and effective way for older adults to maintain their mental health as they age.
The researchers hope that these findings will encourage more older adults to incorporate regular exercise into their daily routine. They recommend starting with a combination of aerobic and resistance training, as this appears to have the most benefits for mental health and cognitive function.
Overall, this study highlights the importance of exercise for mental health and cognitive function in older adults. By staying active and incorporating a variety of exercises into their routine, older adults can potentially improve their overall quality of life as they age.
