Dementia is a progressive decline in a person’s cognitive functions that often occurs in people over the age of 60. The symptoms of dementia can include memory loss, difficulties with language, mood swings, and a loss of motivation, among others.

While there is no known cure for dementia, there are steps that can be taken to reduce one’s risk for developing the condition. One such step is to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle and stay away from sedentary activities.

What is Sedentary Lifestyle?

A sedentary lifestyle is a lifestyle that involves minimal physical activity. People who lead sedentary lifestyles spend long periods of time sitting or lying down.

A sedentary lifestyle is often associated with office work and desk jobs that require sitting for extended periods of time. A sedentary lifestyle can also be due to a lack of interest in physical activity, old age, or chronic health conditions.

How does Sedentary Lifestyle contribute to Dementia?

There is mounting evidence indicating that sedentary lifestyle can contribute to dementia risk. This is because when we lead a sedentary lifestyle, we deprive our brains of the stimulation that is required for healthy cognitive function.

When we don’t use our brains, we lose cognitive function, just like a muscle that is not used tends to waste away. When we remain inactive for extended periods of time, our brains receive less oxygen and nutrients that are needed for optimal performance.

If an individual is not physically active, there is a 1.5 to 2 times greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia in comparison to individuals who are physically active.

Sedentary Lifestyle and Brain Function

Brain cells require a steady supply of blood and oxygen to function effectively.

Physical activity helps to promote the delivery of these essential nutrients to the cells in the brain by facilitating blood-flow and increasing the amount of oxygen that is carried to the cells by the blood. Physical activity also stimulates the production of hormones that are important for brain health, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps to protect brain cells and aids in the formation of new brain cells.

Sedentary Lifestyle and Cardiovascular Health

Sedentary Lifestyle can be a contributing factor towards poor cardiovascular health.

When an individual is inactive, there is a higher risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and other conditions that can be detrimental to cardiovascular health. These conditions can lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can reduce the flow of blood to the brain and can increase the risk of dementia.

Sedentary Lifestyle and Sleep

Individuals who lead sedentary lifestyles are more likely to experience poor sleep patterns. Quality sleep is critical to maintaining optimal cognitive function, and a lack of sleep has been linked to an increased risk of developing dementia.

When we don’t get enough sleep, our brains do not have the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate, which can cause a decline in cognitive function and an increased risk of dementia.

What Can One Do to Reduce the Risk of Dementia?

There are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of dementia. One of the most important steps is to remain physically active throughout one’s life.

Staying active doesn’t require joining a gym, paying for expensive equipment, or running marathons. Instead, simple activities such as going for a walk, gardening, or cycling can all help to increase physical activity levels and improve overall health and well-being.

Exercise helps to stimulate blood-flow to the brain, supports cardiovascular health, and promotes quality sleep, all of which can reduce the risk of dementia.

In addition, it’s also important to engage in cognitively stimulating activities to keep the brain active and healthy. Puzzles, games, reading, and socializing with others all help to exercise the brain, keeping it strong and healthy.

Conclusion

The link between a sedentary lifestyle and dementia is well established. One of the most important steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk of dementia is to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines.

Engaging in regular physical activity has numerous health benefits, including improving cognitive function, maintaining cardiovascular health, and enhancing sleep quality. By remaining physically and mentally active, individuals can take an important step in maintaining their overall health and reducing their risk of dementia.