Consistent physical activity has at all times been related to improving people’s health by reducing the danger of diseases and strengthening bones and muscles. Nevertheless, a latest study has found that individuals with high levels of occupational physical activity are at an increased risk of experiencing cognitive impairment or dementia.

A recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe found that individuals engaged in occupations with a high level of physical activity have a 15.5% risk of dementia, in comparison with the 9% risk observed in those whose work involved low physical activity.

The research also identified that individuals in occupations with an intermediate level of physical activity are at an elevated risk of experiencing mild cognitive impairment; nevertheless, they might not be as liable to dementia.

The study was conducted by the Norwegian National Centre of Ageing and Health, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, and the Butler Columbia Aging Center. Using considered one of the world’s largest population-based studies of dementia, the HUNT4 70+ Study, researchers examined 7,005 participants, including 902 people clinically diagnosed with dementia and a couple of,407 with mild cognitive impairment.

Researchers studied the connection between long-term occupational physical activity levels at ages 33 to 65, and the danger of dementia and mild cognitive impairment at ages 70 and beyond. Nearly half (49.8%) of the whole participants were women.

Among the participants who were exposed to occupation-related intensive physical activity, worked within the fields of retail, nursing and care, and farming. The authors of the study had defined occupational physical activity as engaging in tasks that demand considerable use of your legs and arms, and moving your entire body, resembling climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

Dr. Vegard Skirbekk, the corresponding creator of the study, told Medical News Today that the study aimed to reinforce the understanding of the risks related to Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias over a course of an individual’s lifetime.

“Understanding [Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias] risks in a life-course perspective could also be necessary for each most of the people and health service providers. The causes of dementia late in life could plausibly be found earlier in life,” he said.

He further suggested that having autonomy, taking breaks, and having a way of control over physical demands in a single’s work may reduce the danger of cognitive impairment.

Moreover, he emphasized following standard advice to lower dementia risk, including avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, social isolation, managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes, addressing depression, staying physically energetic, using hearing aids if needed, and minimizing exposure to air pollution, can contribute to cognitive well-being and overall health.

Published by Medicaldaily.com