Easy lifestyle adjustment shown to lessen instances of temporary memory lapses in speech, study finds
A new study published in the Neurobiology of Aging Journal has revealed an intriguing link between fitness levels and brain function, particularly in the area of word-finding ability.
The research, led by Dr Foyzul Rahman, involved 73 adults aged between 60 and 81 who underwent a cardiorespiratory fitness test and an MRI scan. The participants were asked to think of words that were defined to them, and their brain activity during word-finding attempts was observed.
The study found that those with higher VO2 max readings, a measure of the maximum amount of oxygen that a person can use, had fewer instances of tip-of-the-tongue moments. On average, the participants had a VO2 max of 27.55 ml/kg/min.
The findings suggest that fitness is linked to the brain's ability to compensate for age-related changes in language. The study also indicates that regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, running, swimming, or cycling workouts, may help improve recollection and memory.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and interval walking workouts were found to quickly boost VO2 max, while endurance training, such as a 10km run, can raise VO2 max over time. Even simple aerobic exercises, like walking, can improve memory and recollection.
The researchers found that healthy participants experienced a delay in word-finding around one in every six attempts. However, fitter adults showed different patterns in brain activity during word-finding attempts, indicating a potential compensation mechanism for age-related changes.
The study further suggests that aerobic exercise may reduce 'tip of the tongue' moments and improve brain health. Previous research has also shown that cycling workouts may lower the risk of dementia by 88%.
Dr Rahman was surprised by the findings due to the similarity in age and health of the participants. He emphasised that the study provides a strong basis for further research into the relationship between fitness and brain health.
In conclusion, this study provides compelling evidence that maintaining a high level of cardiorespiratory fitness, through regular aerobic exercise, can have a positive impact on brain health and cognitive function in older adults.
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