Older adults are less likely to experience cognitive decline if they eat healthy, exercise frequently and keep their brain active, new research has shown.
Academics have found that people in their 60s and 70s who adopt a combination of healthier habits will have a sharper mind compared to those with unhealthier habits.
Study participant Phyllis Jones, 66, said: “It was the first time I felt like I was doing something proactive to protect my brain.”
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A total of 2,100 adults aged between 60 and 79 took part in the trial by having brain scans and blood tests.
Lead author Laura Baker said: “We’re all on a cognitive ageing clock and anything we can do to slow that clock down, to me, that is a significant benefit.”
Exercise and healthy eating can prevent people from developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease, prior research has revealed.
During this trial, half of the participants followed their normal daily routines with minimal coaching, while the other half were randomly assigned to group classes for exercise and dietary changes.
Participants in this group completed half an hour of moderately intense exercise four times a week and followed the ‘MIND diet’ which is made up of leafy greens, berries, whole grains, poultry and fish. Fast food, red meat, sweets and olive oil are limited on the ‘MIND diet’.
In addition, these individuals had to undergo brain exercises on an online programme called Brain HQ.
Cognitive decline was less common among the participants in this group compared to those following their normal daily routines with minimal coaching, the results have shown.
Jessica Langbaum, from the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, commented: “Combining social engagement with exercise and dietary steps may be key.
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“Americans want to have that one easy thing – ‘If I just eat my blueberries’. There is no one magic bullet. It is a whole lifestyle.”
Older adults can keep their brain active by taking part in different activities, such as puzzles, reading, learning a new language or learning how to play an instrument.
This research was presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference.
