While there is no proven way to complete avoid getting dementia, studies are constantly coming forward with indicators of how to reduce the possibility of ending up with the condition.
A research study was recently undertaken by the National Cheng Kung University in conjunction with the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) in Taiwan. It was found that there was a direct connection between aerobic exercise and cognitive function deterioration for those seniors beginning to encounter Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
The study had approximately 70 participants all suffering with some form of MCI between the ages of 50-80. For four months they were monitored in different groups engaging in the following exercises for half an hour at 60-70% exertion level:
- Aerobic exercise
- Muscle training
- Stretching exercises
It was found that those who engaged in aerobic exercise noticed the best improvements. Next was the muscle trainers and finally the exercise stretchers who did not see much improvement at all.