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Single Cardio Session Boosts Cognitive Function in Older Adults

Just one cardio workout can boost your brain power. Regular exercise can slow cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk.

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Single Cardio Session Boosts Cognitive Function in Older Adults

A recent study by the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has revealed that regular exercise can significantly enhance cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The research, which focuses on post-stroke rehabilitation, shows that even a single exercise session can boost cognitive performance immediately after the workout.

The study builds on previous findings that exercise enhances white matter integrity in younger adults, supporting faster information processing. It also aligns with research showing that higher cardiovascular fitness in midlife is associated with slower cognitive decline and reduced dementia risk.

Short-term exercise interventions, such as three 30-minute brisk walks per week for six months, have been found to improve attention span, verbal memory, and emotional regulation in sedentary older adults. This is attributed to increased blood flow delivering growth factors like BDNF, which supports brain cell growth and strengthens synaptic connections. Furthermore, exercise promotes angiogenesis, creating new blood vessels in the brain to reach hard-to-reach neural corners. Regular exercise also improves cerebral blood flow, ensuring neurons receive adequate oxygen and nutrients.

The TUM study underscores the significant benefits of regular exercise for cognitive health in older adults. It suggests that even a single exercise session can provide immediate cognitive boosts, while regular exercise can slow cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating exercise into daily routines for maintaining and improving cognitive function.

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