The benefits of exercise, both body and mind

When we think of exercise, we typically think of physical activities such as walking, swimming or working out in a gym. When it comes to healthy aging, exercising our brains can be just as important as exercising our bodies. Cognitive-based training (for example, video games or computerized training) can help older adults stay sharp and delay the age-related brain drain. There are many other ways to exercise your brain, but did you know that physical activity such as resistance training can also help improve your memory? Research shows that your lifestyle can influence the cognitive changes that come with aging.

Exercise is a great way to keep both your mind and body fit and healthy. Read more about the benefits and consider adding more exercise to your daily routine.


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DISCLAIMER: These summaries are provided for informational purposes only. They are not a substitute for advice from your own health care professional. The summaries may be reproduced for not-for-profit educational purposes only. Any other uses must be approved by the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (info@mcmasteroptimalaging.org).

Many of our Blog Posts were written before the COVID-19 pandemic and thus do not necessarily reflect the latest public health recommendations. While the content of new and old blogs identify activities that support optimal aging, it is important to defer to the most current public health recommendations. Some of the activities suggested within these blogs may need to be modified or avoided altogether to comply with changing public health recommendations. To view the latest updates from the Public Health Agency of Canada, please visit their website.