Walking Directly Benefits the Brain

The study found that those who walk daily had a thicker brain and were found to have better thinking abilities and memory. The findings hold good for both men and women and those older than 60 years.

For Senior citizens walking is important for the health of their brain, its helps neurological cells.

Under the study, adults aged over 60 years were made to walk 4,000 steps every day and their brain health was evaluated.

Dr Girish Nair, a consultant, neurology, Apollo Hospitals, said, “Physical exercise is now known to have tremendous and varied benefits in the elderly in preventing neuro-degenerative conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease and also other lifestyle disorders.

“Research shows that walking and physical exercise not only helps enhance bone mineral mass but also help keep the brain active.”

To walk 4,000 steps per day is important regular exercise for senior citizens.
Those who are starting later can opt for it at least five times in a week.
Senior citizens who suffer from arthritis can opt for other exercises like swimming.

Dr P. R. Reddy, a senior general physician, said, “For maximum benefit it is important that exercise is done at a stretch. Breaking it down in two parts or three parts during the day will not have the desired effect.”

For senior citizens to ensure that they are fit, physical activity must be a habit right from the middle ages so that they can reap the maximum benefits over a period of time.

Dr Anil Kumar who deals with sports medicine, said, “Those who have been active all their life get the maximum benefit of a healthy brain. Those who begin late tned to see lesser benefits.

Research is now showing that a simple step like walking can go a long way in keeping both heart and brain active. It also can go a long way in maintaining good health and staying fit.”