Older Australians walk towards a sharper brain

A morning walk could improve the brain function of older Australians throughout the day, thanks to researchers to better understand the benefits of moderate exercise intensity.

Men and women, aged 55 to 80 years, improved their cognitive performance after an eight-hour physical activity, reveals the study published overnight.

While the same group added three-minute light intensity steps throughout the day, it boosted short-term memory compared to periods of prolonged sitting, according to Baker Heart's research. Diabetes Institute and the University of Western Australia

More than 65 men and women participated in the study Brain Breaks on the attention of participants, decision-making, visual learning and working memory, badociated with the exercise.

Exercise allowed them to walk on a treadmill.

Exercise revealed that a protein essential for the growth of brain neurons transmitting information was high for eight hours, compared to an extended sitting position.

Researcher Michael Wheeler stated that sitting for long periods of time should be avoided in order to maintain optimal cognition throughout the day and that a brisk walk improves brain health.

"This study shows how relatively simple changes in your daily routine could have a significant beneficial effect on your cognitive health," he said.

"It also reveals that someday, we may be able to do certain types of exercises to enhance specific cognitive skills such as memory or learning."

The study was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.