Computer use combined with exercise could reduce risk of mild cognitive impairment

The study, in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, involved 926 people in Olmsted County, Minnesota aged 70-93. Participants completed self reported questionnaires on physical exercise and computer use within one year prior to the date of interview.

The researchers found that of the participants who did not exercise and did not use a computer, 20.1 per cent were cognitively normal and 37.6 per cent showed signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Of those who both exercised and used a computer, 36 per cent were cognitively normal and 18.3 per cent showed signs of MCI.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'There is already considerable evidence to show that donning the walking shoes, or hitting the tennis courts can have real benefits for your head as well as your heart. Although we need to know more before we can say for sure whether using computers has real additional benefits and why this could be, we would encourage any older people who enjoy using them to keep it up.

'The best way to reduce your risk of dementia is to exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, don't smoke and get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked by your GP.'

Prof Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

Research reference: 'Computer activities, physical exercise, aging and mild cognitive impairment: A population-based study' by Geda et al in Mayo Clinic Proceedings

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