Television is a common form of entertainment that most people indulge in. It provides a way for people to relax at home after a long day and catch up on the latest happenings around the world.

However, studies have revealed that too much TV viewing can result in a higher risk of dementia.

The Studies

Researchers have conducted several studies to determine the effect of television on the brain.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2011 found that people who watched more than four hours of TV per day had a 46% higher risk of death from any cause than those who watched less than two hours per day.

Another research conducted in England revealed that those who watched more than three and a half hours of TV per day had an almost eight times greater risk of developing dementia than those who watched less than one hour per day.

Moreover, the participants who watched TV for over three and a half hours per day performed poorly in cognitive tests and had lower brain volume compared to those who watched less TV.

The Reasoning Behind the Link

The link between TV viewing and dementia is attributed to the sedentary lifestyle that comes with watching TV for extended hours.

When people sit or lie down for long periods, they tend to engage in less physical exercise, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. All these conditions can increase the risk of developing dementia.

Moreover, studies have shown that watching TV can cause a lack of mental stimulation and social interaction, which are essential for maintaining cognitive function.

When people watch TV, they are not actively engaged in any intellectual activity, and this can lead to a decline in brain function, memory, and language ability.

Tips to Reduce the Risk of Dementia

Although TV has been linked to an increased risk of dementia, it doesn’t mean you should cut it out of your life entirely.

Instead, you need to find a balance between watching TV and other activities that promote physical exercise, social interaction, and intellectual stimulation. Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of dementia:.

1. Limit your TV viewing time

You can reduce the amount of time you spend watching TV by setting a limit on how much you can watch per day. For instance, you can decide to watch one hour of TV per day and devote the rest of the time to other activities.

2. Engage in physical activity

Physical exercise is vital in promoting cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of obesity, and maintaining cognitive function. You can engage in activities such as hiking, swimming, or cycling to promote physical exercise.

3. Stay socially engaged

Social interaction is crucial in maintaining cognitive function and preventing dementia. You can join social groups, attend events, and engage in activities with friends and family to promote social interaction.

4. Stimulate your brain

You can engage in activities that stimulate your brain, such as puzzles, games, or reading, to promote cognitive function and prevent dementia. You can also learn new skills or take up new hobbies to challenge your brain and keep it active.

Conclusion

Watching TV is a common pastime that most people indulge in. However, studies have linked TV viewing to an increased risk of dementia due to the sedentary lifestyle that comes with it.

To reduce the risk of dementia, it’s essential to find a balance between TV viewing and other activities that promote physical exercise, social interaction, and intellectual stimulation.