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It’s well-known that regular physical activity can protect older adults from memory and cognitive decline. However, recent research has revealed that this protective effect may be diminished in those who experience poor sleep and get less than six hours of rest each night.
How Was the Study Conducted?
A team of British scientists studied cognitive functions in 8,958 individuals aged 50 and older over a span of 10 years. The assessment was based on memory test results, where participants were asked to recall a list of 10 words both immediately and after a delay. Additionally, participants underwent a free recall test, where they had to name as many animals as possible within a minute.
The researchers examined how various combinations of sleep habits and physical exercise could impact memory and cognition over time. The analysis revealed that more physically active individuals who averaged less than six hours of sleep per night experienced a rapid overall decline in cognitive functions. After 10 years, their memory and thinking skills were comparable to those of their less active peers who slept longer.
Exercise and Good Sleep Go Hand in Hand
Lead author Mikaela Blumberg told the Daily Mail that her team’s findings suggest that adequate sleep plays a significant role in reaping noticeable cognitive benefits from physical activity. Therefore, maintaining cognitive health should be viewed in the context of achieving at least six hours of quality sleep alongside regular exercise.
At the beginning of the study, those who were more physically active exhibited better cognitive functions regardless of their sleep duration. However, over the 10-year observation period, individuals who slept less than six hours experienced a faster decline in cognitive health compared to those who slept between six and eight hours a night.
The rapid decline was particularly evident in individuals aged 50 to 60. However, older participants aged 70 and above seemed to retain the cognitive benefits of exercise despite shorter sleep durations.
Co-author Professor Andrew Steptoe emphasizes the importance of identifying factors that can help preserve cognitive functions in middle and older age. This could lead to a longer, healthier life as people age and, for some, delay the onset of dementia.
The WHO already recognizes physical activity as a means of supporting cognitive functions. Now, researchers note that sleep habits must also be considered to maximize long-term health benefits.
