Unlike popular belief, dementia is not a natural or unavoidable part of aging. Medical experts think that cognitive decline can often be prevented – and, in some cases, even reversed with the correct intervention. One such specialist, Dr. Heather Sandison, a neurocogistic medicine specialist, shared insight about reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease through a recent specific form of exercise.

Speaking in an Instagram reel with neuroscientist Robert Love, which focuses on helping people to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, Dr. Sandison reported that regular physical activity is important for brain health. However, he explained that double work exercise-a low-obvious but highly effective technique-is the most powerful way to keep your brain as fast as your age.

What is double work exercise?

Dual work exercise involves engaging in a mental function as well as a physical activity. Dr. According to Sandison, this type of activity stimulates the brain more intensely because it requires coordination, attention and memory – all at once. He simply described this: “You want to attach cognitively at the same time, when you are physically attached.”

One of the easiest and most effective examples of dual function exercises is to walk and talk. Going to walk with someone you cares and a meaningful conversation is not only good for physical health, but keeps the mind active. Dr. Sandison suggests that, especially for those who are already experiencing cognitive decline, conversations that involve birthdays or meaningful events can help stimulate memory. Like – as memory improves, you can increase the challenge – such as ask them to identify birds or plants during the walk.

For people with strong cognitive ability, experts recommend ballroom dance as an ideal double task practice. This activity combines the stages, adjusting the rhythm, and interacting with a partner, combining physical coordination, making it a full-brain workout.

Are these exercises effective?

Research supports the effectiveness of such exercises. A study published in the Journal of Neurology found that people who are engaged in both physical and cognitive activities have a much less risk of development of Alzheimer’s disease. A study dated one and 2021 from Frontiers in aging neurosciences found that double work training improved memory, attention and executive work in older adults.

Alzheimer’s society also recognizes physical activity as one of the major lifestyle factors that can help delay the onset of dementia. Exercise increases blood flow in the brain, reduces inflammation, and helps regulate blood sugar levels – which play a role in all cognitive health.

Other exercises that support brain health

In addition to dual work exercises, there are other physical activities that are associated with low risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia:

• Aerobic exercise such as jogging, cycling, or swimming improves cardiovascular health, which in turn benefits the function of the brain.
• According to a 2017 study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, the old adults have shown power training to support executive work and memory.
• Yoga and Tai Chi Chi promote mindfulness and reduce stress associated with better cognitive consequences.

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