Cognitive ability is something that can, unfortunately, become a problem as people age. With Alzheimer’s, dementia, etc. affecting memory and other aspects of the human mind and body, many older individuals and their loved ones are wondering if there’s anything that can be done to stave off memory-related issues.
Fortunately, senior fitness increases cognitive ability!
One study showed that the brain is better protected by a high level of fitness. When adults around 68 years of age were evaluated, their fitness was gauged and thinking abilities were tested as they rode exercise bikes. Their executive function was better, the fitter they were. Executive function refers to memory, attention control, and other tasks.
Better Sleep with Better Fitness
For adults age 65 and up, sleep and physical fitness can be very closely related, as well. When four fitness levels were examined for this age group, sleep duration was longer, and the quality of sleep was better, the fitter the individual was. So, better “sack time” will be experienced by older adults who pay attention to fitness and health.
Do Older Adults Have to Take It Easy?
As long as your aging loved one’s physician approves an exercise regime, the intensity of the exercise need not be at a lower level, and they may not have to slow down, depending on the individual.
At basically any age, HIIT or high-intensity interval training is acceptable, as long as the person is capable of withstanding the workout. What is high-intensity interval training? If you work out for a couple of minutes (or as little as 30 seconds), stop, and then repeat your workout, that’s what’s referred to as HIIT.
For individuals aged 65 or over, this kind of workout can trigger the growth of new muscles and boost the ability of their muscles to produce energy. Since older adults frequently experience muscle loss, this can help as a counteractive method.
You Are What You Eat
You’ve likely heard that one before. The thing is, it’s true, to an extent. In the interest of helping your loved one be more fit, yet consume foods that are memory and brain boosters, we’ve come up with a list:
- Oranges
- Eggs
- Green tea
- Nuts
- Dark chocolate
- Pumpkin seeds
- Broccoli
- Turmeric
- Blueberries
- Coffee
- Fatty fish
Fortunately, many of these can and should be part of a healthy, nutritional, balanced diet. For more information on this topic, read this Healthline article on foods that boost your memory and brain.
At Spring Mill, Residents Can Keep Their Mind and Body Healthy
Your retirement age grandma, grandpa, mom, dad, etc. will enjoy senior living at its finest thanks, in part, to any number of the programs available at Spring Mill Senior Living Community. What kind of programs are we referring to? Check these out:
- Sensations Dining
- Dimensions Health and Fitness
- Celebrations Activities and Events
Do you have questions regarding sales and leasing? If so, you can phone us at 610.200.8168. With other questions, please phone 610.933.7675. You can also use our convenient contact form page.
Better yet, see for yourself all we have to offer. Schedule a tour today.
