By Chelsey - Published: 16/08/2024

Exercise and Brain Health: A Lifeline for the Aging Population

Has someone you know been affected by dementia? Has someone in your family been affected by dementia? Will you be affected?

Every day, more than 350 people in Canada develop dementia. This is more than 15 people every hour. By 2030, nearly 1 million people in Canada could be living with dementia.

As we age, maintaining brain health becomes increasingly vital. The aging population faces a heightened risk of cognitive decline, including conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. While there is no cure for these conditions,

The Impact of Exercise on Brain Health in Older Adults

So how exactly can exercise help with brain health? Studies suggest that regular exercise can lower the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. It does this by helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key factors in the progression of these diseases. Not only does it reduce these key factors, but it also improves cognitive function at the same time.

This means that if you regularly exercise, just as the muscles in your body become stronger and more resilient, your brain will do the same. Exercise actually stimulates the growth of new neurons and enhances the brain’s ability to form new connections. This ensures that all the cherished memories you create throughout your life will not be lost, nor will you stop making new ones. You will be able to continuously share special moments with your loved ones.

The Urgency of Health Services in Light of Rising Dementia and Alzheimer’s Rates

If current rates of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease persist, the demand for health services will increase dramatically. Preventing or delaying the onset of cognitive decline through exercise can reduce the burden on healthcare systems. Fewer cases of dementia and Alzheimer’s translate to lower healthcare costs and less strain on medical resources.

For the elderly, maintaining cognitive health means retaining independence for longer. This leads to a better quality of life and less reliance on caregivers and assisted living facilities. At Longevity Nexum, our number one goal is to enable our clients to do what they want to do for as long as possible. We are redefining movement for life – for all ages. Exercise is a tool that can benefit everyone, regardless of when they start.

The Way Out

The best time to start was yesterday; the second-best time to start is today. Call our team of Registered Kinesiologists at Longevity Nexum and take the first step towards maintaining brain health.

Exercise is a cornerstone of brain health, especially for the aging population. By promoting physical activity, we can not only enhance cognitive function and mental well-being but also reduce the impending burden on health services. As dementia and Alzheimer’s rates continue to rise, integrating regular exercise into daily routines becomes a crucial strategy in preserving brain health and improving the quality of life for older adults.

Written by Chelsey Torrance