Movement Is Medicine for the Brain
When we think about exercise, we often think about our heart, muscles, weight, or mobility. However, movement is important for our brain, too.
The good news is that being active does not have to mean joining a gym, running miles, or starting a difficult exercise program.
Movement counts.
Why Movement Matters to the Brain
Our brains depend on a healthy heart and blood vessels. Physical activity helps improve blood flow and supports heart health. It can also help lower the risk of health conditions linked to cognitive decline, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
In addition, regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia.
The World Health Organization includes physical activity among the lifestyle factors that may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
But there is another reason movement matters. It often connects with other things that are good for our brains.
For example, a walk with a friend combines physical activity and social connection. Dancing adds movement, music, coordination, and learning. Gardening can include movement, time outdoors, purpose, and problem-solving.
In other words, brain health isn’t about finding one perfect activity. Instead, healthy habits often work together.
You Don’t Have to Become an Athlete
For many people, the word exercise brings to mind gyms, workout clothes, and structured routines.
Instead, think about movement more broadly.
Walking the dog, working in the yard, taking the stairs, dancing in the kitchen, stretching, swimming, or gardening all count.
The World Health Organization recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. However, you don’t have to do it all at once. Smaller amounts throughout the week add up.
Most importantly, start where you are.
If you have not been active lately, begin with something manageable. A ten-minute walk is a start. Over time, a short walk may become a longer one. One active day may become several.
The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is to make movement a regular part of your life.
Add Something Else Your Brain Likes
You can also combine movement with another brain-healthy habit.
For example, walk with someone instead of walking alone. Try a new route. Listen to music. Take a dance class. Spend time outside. Or learn an activity you haven’t tried before.
These activities can support physical health while also giving your brain opportunities to learn, connect, and stay engaged.
Our communities matter, too. Safe places to walk, accessible parks and trails, and opportunities to spend time with others can make healthy choices easier.
At HOPE Dementia Support, we believe staying active and staying connected often go hand in hand. Our programs offer many ways for people living with dementia and their care partners to remain engaged in their communities.
What Can You Do This Week?
You don’t need to change everything at once.
Instead, choose one realistic way to move a little more.
Take a walk after dinner. Put on a favorite song and dance. Meet a friend for a walk instead of sitting for coffee. Spend some time in the garden. Or park a little farther from the entrance.
Then, do it again.
Small choices can become habits. And over time, those habits matter.
Of course, there is no single action that can guarantee someone will or will not develop dementia. Many factors that affect dementia risk are outside our control.
However, research continues to show that there are things we can do throughout our lives that may help lower our risk and support brain health.
Physical activity is one of them.
When it comes to brain health, it is never too early — or too late — to begin.
Continue Exploring Brain Health
This is the third article in HOPE Dementia Support’s Brain Health Matters series.
If you missed the first two articles, you can read:
Part 1: Small Steps Today Can Make a Difference for Your Brain Tomorrow
Part 2: Better Sleep, Healthier Brain: Simple Changes That Can Make a Difference
Throughout this series, we’ll continue looking at practical ways to support our brains throughout our lives.
Visit HOPE Dementia Support to learn more about our programs, education, and community resources.