I know we have all heard the same things over and over, exercise, exercise, exercise. However, there really are some great benefits to it, and if you don't think of it at exercise, it's less taxing.
As we age, any movement, be it leisure or high intensity is beneficial. A study from Johns Hopkins discovered that a variety of leisure and physical activities could reduce dementia risks in older adults. The report, which appeared in the American Journal of Epidemiology, suggested that participating in a number of different activities may be as or more important than frequency, duration and intensity of physical activity with respect to dementia risk (caregiverstress.com).
Exercise not only benefits our bodies, but it also benefits our minds. Engaging in movements that provide thinking, like dance require more mental thought. Essentially you are working your entire body. "Other studies have supported the theory that engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help keep your mind sharp. For example, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that seniors age 75 or older who participated at least twice weekly in reading, playing games (chess, checkers, backgammon or cards), playing musical instruments and dancing, were significantly less likely to develop dementia" (Caregiverstress.com).
Whatever your form of 'exercise' looks like, keep doing it. You can't ignore the facts and besides exercise makes you feel good and keeps you healthy.
So start moving...
** Join us for one of the upcoming free
Alzheimer's Family Caregiver Education Workshops:
- Tuesday Sept 24th, 2013 - 7pm - 8pm @ The Hallmark, 2960 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
- Thursday, Sept. 26th, 2013 - 6:30pm-7:30pm, Morton Grove Civic Center, 6140 W. Dempster, Morton Grove
For more information http://www.homeinstead.com/383/CalendarofEvents/Pages/CalendarofEvents.aspx or call 847-673-1250.
