What if our daily activities had a direct impact on the risk of developing dementia later? This is the conclusion of a recent study which warns about these 2 common activities. We tell you everything.
A new study conducted by the University of South Australia highlights daily habits which researchers believe could increase or reduce the risk of developing dementia. This research work, focused on the daily behaviors of elderly people, allows us to better understand the relationship between sedentary activities and cognitive health. Researchers tracked the habits of 397 older adults over a 24-hour period, analyzing how their daily activities influence brain function.
Two behaviors stand out as particularly worrying: watch TV and play video games. According to Dr. Maddison Mellow, who led this study, these two sedentary activities are associated with increased cognitive deterioration. “We found that sedentary behaviors that promote mental stimulation or social engagement, such as reading or talking with friends, are beneficial for cognitive functions, while others, like watching TV or gaming, have a negative effect”, she explains (Get Surrey).
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A significant but preventable risk of dementia
In contrast, other sedentary activities, such as reading, prayer or social discussions, have shown positive effects on the brain. These results underline that it is not just the time spent sitting that matters, but the nature of the activity. Cognitively stimulating sedentary behaviors may, on the contrary, protect brain function. Dementia, defined by the National Health Service as a continuing decline in brain function, affects around 944,000 people in the UK, including one in 11 over-65s.
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However, recent data show that 45% of cases could be avoided through lifestyle changes. Harmful sedentary behaviors, such as long hours spent in front of a screen, are just one of many factors at play. The University of Oxford has previously revealed that things like fatigue, alcohol and air pollution play a role. also a role in the development of the disease. The Australian study sheds additional light by detailing how simple habits, like choosing to read a book instead of watching TV, can make a noticeable difference.
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Expert recommendations to protect your brain
During this holiday season, you may have planned movie marathons or extended video game sessions. Dr. Mellow emphasizes that these activities should not be banned altogether, but it is best to balance them with more beneficial behaviors. “To achieve the best results in terms of brain health and physical health, you should prioritize pleasant movements that get your heart rate up, because they have beneficial effects on all aspects of health. But even a small change in weather five minutes can have beneficial effects”, she explains. She also recommends introducing small changes to your daily habits. For example, interrupt a movie marathon with a short walk or alternating with a more mentally engaging activity can make a significant difference in the long term.
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The link between sedentary behaviors and cognitive health is part of a broader body of research. The University of Oxford recently analyzed 40,000 brain scans, identifying regions particularly vulnerable to risk factors such as diabetes, pollution and alcohol. This research has also shown that certain brain networks are influenced by genetic variations associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Experts agree that prevention requires healthier lifestyle choices. In addition to these changes in sedentary behavior, it is advisable to maintain a balanced diet, limit alcohol consumption, get enough sleep and engage in regular physical activity. Thus, this new study reminds us that our daily choices, even seemingly trivial ones, can significantly influence our brain health.
