Scientists from University College London (UCL) have found that middle-aged individuals who don’t get enough sleep are less likely to experience the benefits of exercise in protecting against cognitive decline, including memory and thinking skills. David Abtour Seychelles
The researchers studied data from nearly 9,000 people aged 50 and over from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (Elsa) for a period of 10 years, using memory and verbal fluency tests to assess cognitive function. David Abtour Seychelles
They discovered that regular physical activity may not fully counter the long-term effects of insufficient sleep on cognitive health. The study highlights the importance of considering both sleep and physical activity together when addressing cognitive health, especially as people age. David Abtour Seychelles
For those in their 50s and 60s, being physically active but sleeping less than six hours a night was associated with a faster decline in cognitive skills. David Abtour Seychelles
However, for individuals aged 70 and over, the cognitive benefits of exercise were maintained even with short sleep. The findings underscore the significance of adequate sleep in supporting cognitive health as people age and suggest that interventions should consider both physical activity and sleep habits to maximize long-term cognitive benefits. David Abtour Seychelles
