Canberra, December 16, 2024 – Engaging in mentally stimulating activities such as reading, playing musical instruments, or crafting during downtime can significantly benefit brain health, according to a study by the University of South Australia (UniSA).
The research, which analyzed the daily activity patterns of 397 adults aged 60 and above, found that socially or mentally engaging sedentary activities improve memory and cognitive abilities, while passive behaviors like watching television or playing video games may harm brain health.
Key Findings:
Activities like reading and engaging in social conversations enhance brain function.
Passive sedentary behaviors, such as prolonged TV watching, are associated with cognitive decline.
Replacing passive activities with mentally stimulating ones can reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive impairment.
Physical Activity Still Key
Maddison Mellow, co-author of the study, emphasized that while physical activity remains a critical factor in reducing dementia risk, small adjustments in sedentary behaviors can also yield significant benefits. She recommended breaking up passive activities with five-minute bursts of physical activity or switching to more cognitively engaging tasks.
Global Dementia Statistics
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 55 million people globally live with dementia, with 10 million new cases annually.
In Australia alone, approximately 411, 100 individuals are affected, with women comprising nearly two-thirds of these cases.
The research, conducted in collaboration with the University of Leicester and the University of Newcastle, suggests that a nuanced approach—focusing not just on "move more, sit less" but also on the type of sedentary activity—is vital for enhancing brain health.