We are all aging, no matter what we do. That is a given. But we want to age well, stay as healthy and independent as possible and retain our memories. Researchers compared data from 36 different studies of over 3,000 participants. They concluded that regular exercise helps support episodic memory over time and that aerobic exercise seems to be best. The greatest benefits were found in participants 55 and older.
Episodic memories are memories of specific experiences that include things like time and location, such as driving a car for the first time, your wedding or your most recent birthday. According to the study authors, episodic memory is one of the earliest memory systems to decline as we get older.
So how much exercise do you need to gain this benefit? The study authors found exercising three times a week for at least 4 months is what will help you reap the benefits in episodic memory. They saw greatest improvement in the participants between 55 and 68 years as opposed to those older than 68. So beginning earlier is better!
Also, another new study from Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association found that in older adults, more physical activity equaled more of a protective protein in the brain that strengthens communication between brain cells via synapses. It’s especially meaningful that these benefits were specific to late-life activity and were even seen in people with markers of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. It’s never too late to make a difference in your health.
Do you exercise regularly? Knowing it can help preserve your memory and overall brain health, would you begin now?
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3-D Vitality 
There’s so much that we’ll never understand about this most amazing creation by God, the human body. I do thank Him though for folks like you who help us to live our best lives and keep our bodies in their best shape. Perhaps I’m just in a happy mood this morning (not sure why, but I’ll take it), but your post brought this song to mind. I pray it brings you a smile too Ms. Ann. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yN-6PbqAPM
Hahaha – I love this and it didn’t just bring a smile to my face it made me laugh out loud!! Thank you my friend.
Every day, Ann … Since 2011! Just too many benefits not to. While I’ve been in sunny Florida, I’ve began each day with a sunrise stroll. No matter what happens the rest of the day, I’ve already had a great day!
You are amazing Holly!