How can work help prevent dementia? Study explains
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Photo: Reproduction.
Dementia is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people around the world. However, recent research indicates that work, both cognitive and physical, can play an important role in preventing this disease. Let’s explore how work can help maintain our brain health:
- Cognitive Activity:
- Mental Stimulation: Engaging in cognitively stimulating activities such as reading, writing, games and library visits is associated with a lower risk of dementia. A study by Rush University in Chicago found that people with high levels of cognitive activity developed Alzheimer’s on average. five years later than those with low levels of activity.
- Cognitive Reserve Creation: Keeping your mind active throughout life can create a “cognitive reserve”. This means that even if you have a genetic predisposition to the disease, cognitive reserve can delay the onset of symptoms.
- Physical activity:
- Regular Exercise: Regular physical exercise is associated with cognitive benefits. Increasing blood flow to the brain, reducing stress, and improving cardiovascular function may help protect against dementia.
- General Health Maintenance: Active physical work, such as walking, swimming or gardening, keeps the body and, therefore, the brain healthy. Cardiovascular health and adequate blood circulation are essential for brain function.
- Socialization:
- Active Social Network: Work often involves social interactions. Maintaining an active social network, whether at work or outside of work, is associated with a lower risk of dementia. Loneliness and social isolation can be risk factors.
- Routine and Purpose:
- Daily Structure: Work provides a daily routine, which is beneficial for the brain. Having regular schedules and tasks to complete helps keep your mind active.
- Sense of Purpose: Work gives life meaning and a sense of purpose. Having goals and responsibilities contributes to mental health.
- Balance and Moderation:
- Avoid Excess: Although work is beneficial, excess stress and long hours can have negative effects on brain health. Balance is essential.
In summary, staying mentally and physically active, socializing, having a routine, and finding purpose at work are important strategies for preventing dementia. Start today, no matter your age, and reap the long-term brain health benefits.
With information from Health Harvard.
