Summary
An Australian review of 39 studies has found that physical exercise (aerobic exercise and strength training) appears to improve cognitive functioning, including memory and attention. Interventions such as aerobic exercise, resistance training, multicomponent training and tai chi all confer significant benefits, to a varying extent.
Reference
Exercise ‘keeps the mind sharp’ in over-50s, study finds’. London: BBC Health News, April 25th 2017.
NHS Choices Behind the Headlines cover this research, too.
“This study provides evidence that, even for people with some signs of declining mental function, regular moderately intense exercise has a positive effect”.
Reference
Regular exercise for the over-50s ‘sharpens the mind’. London: NHS Choices; Behind the Headlines, April 26th 2017.
This relates to:
Reference
Northey, JM. Cherbuin, N. [and] Pumpa, KL. [et al] (2017). Exercise interventions for cognitive function in adults older than 50: a systematic review with meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine. April 24th 2017. [Epub ahead of print].