Taking part in Tai Chi can reduce the risk of developing dementia, latest research has demonstrated.
A study from the Oregon Research Institute has found that taking part in the ancient Chinese martial art can improve cognitive ability.
More than 200 people over the age of 65 took part in the study, all of whom had experienced a decline in their memory.
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During the research investigation, each participant was required to complete an online Tai Chi programme.
In addition, they had to complete other tests which allowed the scientists to analyse their memory, orientation skills and sleep quality.
The findings were then assessed against another group of individuals who did stretching exercises.
The results show that after five and a half months the cognitive skills of the participants who did Tai Chi were 30% better than those in the stretching group.
According to the scientists, a Tai Chi exercise programme can “potentially lower the risk for developing dementia.”
They said: “The magnitude of improvement seen in the study shows that Tai Chi could slow or counter multiple years of cognitive decline and maintain functional capacity that is essential to living independently.”
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Previous research has revealed that Tai Chi can also slow down the physical decline in people with Parkinson’s Disease.
The ancient Chinese martial art improves some symptoms of Parkinson’s, including stiffness, fatigue, tremor, anxiety and speech complications, the trial has reported.
Prior studies have found that Tai Chi can also boost dopamine levels in the brain, which serves multiple functions such as controlling movement and mood.
Find the full study in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.
