I just read an interesting article about a research study done by the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, which is featured on the research page of this blog. The study concludes that computer use in combination with exercise had a significant and positive result in helping preserve the memory of participants, aged 70 - 93. Though I don't fall into that age group yet, I was encouraged that I've at least got half of that right -- betcha can't guess which half.
It was interesting to me in that I have never seen those particular two aspects studied together. Brain stimulation has long been touted as helping neuroplasticity (which is pretty much what you'd imagine -- keeping your neural pathways working keeps them more flexible). But it's gratifying to baby boomers everywhere who spend lots of time at a computer keyboard, that this can also be helping to keep your brain active and your memory intact. Now we just have to remember to get up from the computer, stretch, breathe deeply and take a brisk walk every couple of hours. At least it's hopeful news. I'm inspired and I hope you are, too! I really love it when something I enjoy actually turns out to be good for me, don't you? Like dark chocolate as an antioxidant. Ahh, yes. But that probably deserves a post unto itself.
It was interesting to me in that I have never seen those particular two aspects studied together. Brain stimulation has long been touted as helping neuroplasticity (which is pretty much what you'd imagine -- keeping your neural pathways working keeps them more flexible). But it's gratifying to baby boomers everywhere who spend lots of time at a computer keyboard, that this can also be helping to keep your brain active and your memory intact. Now we just have to remember to get up from the computer, stretch, breathe deeply and take a brisk walk every couple of hours. At least it's hopeful news. I'm inspired and I hope you are, too! I really love it when something I enjoy actually turns out to be good for me, don't you? Like dark chocolate as an antioxidant. Ahh, yes. But that probably deserves a post unto itself.
