Avoiding Mild Cognitive Impairment with Computers and Exercise
Article by A Aaronson
Mild cognitive impairment is a fact of getting older for some people. While the majority of individuals can avoid the telltale symptoms of dementia and mental dysfunction, forgetting things and losing the ability to think quickly are often seen as unavoidable. It is a fact that our bones become more brittle as we age and our muscles atrophy to some degree, but is the loss of our mental skill the same? Is there nothing we can do about it if it was destined to happen? As it turns out, there may be something we can do, after all.
Working from a recent study conducted by the Mayo Clinic, researchers have found that both exercise and the use of a computer can protect the brain against mild cognitive impairment in some cases. While it has been known for some time that either activity would protect against this form of mental deterioration, this study was the first to combine the activities. It showed that a life filled with both was more beneficial than either separately. Considering the influence and impact of computers on our lives and the ubiquitous nature of gyms and other ways of getting exercise, it should be easier than ever to put off loss of mental function.
What is particularly great about the role of exercise in keeping mild cognitive impairment at bay is that is it so essential for older people in general. As mentioned, the bones and muscles become weaker as we age. Those in their sixties and higher are certain to notice how much more difficult it is to do things that were taken for granted in earlier days. Exercise can not only keep the brain working at capacity, but it can stave off much of that physical atrophy. Many health experts point to weight lifting as one of the best ways to keep the muscles working.
As far as computer use goes, it is difficult for anyone under the age of thirty to imagine a life without them. PCs may have been a niche thing in the 80s, but in the 2000s they are nearly essential for anyone involved in either a social or employment world. But it is easy for older Americans to eschew the use of the internet and computers. They didn’t grow up with them, and they may have only come to prominence after they had retired. It is easy to see why the internet might be overwhelming for certain seniors, but with the advantages this study claims use of the computer has, it is worth pursuing.
About the Author
Mild cognitive impairment does not have to control your life, or the life of your loved one. If you are seeking treatment for this disorder, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the caring staff at http://cerefolinnac.com/