Exercise not only slows cognitive decline but also improves brain function

Continuing research conducted by a research team at the University of Queensland in Australia has shown that high-intensity exercise not only slows down cognitive decline in older adults, but also improves brain function.

UQ research reveals exercise brain boost can last for years - UQ News - The University of Queensland, Australia

Brain Boost Linked to Exercise Can Last Several Years, Scientists Find : ScienceAlert
https://www.sciencealert.com/brain-boost-linked-to-exercise-can-last-several-years-scientists-find

Professor Emeritus Perry Bartlett and Dr Daniel Blackmore of the University of Queensland studied 151 healthy people aged 65 to 85 years old, dividing them into three exercise groups for six months: low-intensity training such as stretching, moderate-intensity training such as treadmill walking, and high-intensity training such as an exercise bike set at the heaviest setting.

They then performed high-resolution brain scans, along with biomarkers and cognitive tests.

Research has shown that exercise activates stem cells and increases neuron production in the hippocampus, not only preventing cognitive decline but also improving function.

Dr Blackmore also conducted a follow-up study to look at the brain function of the older adults who exercised five years later, and found that the group that did high-intensity training maintained their improved cognitive abilities.

'Even though they were no longer able to keep up with the exercise, their cognitive performance was still incredibly improved,' Dr Blackmore said.

'If we can change the dynamics of ageing through simple interventions like exercise, and help people maintain higher cognitive abilities, we could save communities from the enormous costs associated with dementia,' Professor Bartlett said.

In the future, the research team plans to investigate whether genetic factors may be involved.