Afaryn, Logan, Asia, Jamie, Jazmin
Elderly
BENEFITS FROM EXERCISING:
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Increases the size of the brain
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Reduces the chances of developing mental illnesses
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Enhances the cognitive functions
EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT:
Erickson, K. I., Voss, M. W., Prakash, R. S., Basak, C., Szabo, A., Chaddock, L., & Kramer, A. F. (2011)
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Exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory.
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A single-blinded study was conducted to determine if exercise training will enhance the size of the hippocampus.
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120 participants were randomly placed into a group that received moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or stretching and toning exercises (control).
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3 days a week for one year.
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MRI examinations: completed before the experiment, after 6 months, and after the experiment.
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Results: the moderate-intensity aerobic exercise group had an increase by 1.9 to 2 percent in volume of the right and left hippocampus, while the control group had a decline of 1 to 1.4 percent.
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Overall, exercising can assist with the growth of the hippocampus!
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EXPERIMENT/RESULTS:
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Ryosuke, S., Tomohiro, O., Masaki, N., & Yoshio, N. (2015)
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Square-Stepping Exercise (SSE) was created to create physical and cognitive training.
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58 participants were split into a weekly session group (26 elderly) and fortnightly session group (32 elderly).
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Participants had to watch and recognize step patterns that were demonstrated by an instructor on an SSE mat.
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For 6 months, participants had to review the printed pattern diagram at home and for 50 to 60 minutes, perform the exercise.
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5 cognitive tests were administered: cued recall, character positioning reference, animal naming listing, clock drawing, and analogy test.
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Results: Both groups enhanced in the cued recall test. The weekly group improved in character position reference.
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Overall, performing light exercises can help enhance cognitive functioning!
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HOW TO STAY ACTIVE:
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Go with family & friends
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Set realistic goals
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Join programs