Aging. It’s the subject of jokes, birthday cards, and the occasional sigh in the mirror. But there’s a side to getting older that none of us can laugh off: the fact that, as the years add up, our brains can start losing steam in the areas we rely on most. Luckily, science says there’s hope. And better yet, it’s hidden in surprisingly fun activities you might actually look forward to.
The Hidden Toll of Aging on the Brain
Let’s not sugarcoat it—after a certain age, our brain’s capacity to handle daily essentials begins to weaken. We’re talking about more than just forgetting a name now and then. We mean declines in:
- Attention
- Orientation
- Memory
- Visual recognition (a fancy term: « gnosias »)
- Executive functions—making and carrying out plans
- Movements (« praxies »)
- Language
- Social cognition
- Visuo-spatial skills (like navigating your neighborhood or not bumping into that pesky coffee table)
It’s a lot. And yes, it happens as we age. But before you start using “I forgot, must be my aging brain!” as an excuse for everything, there’s encouraging news.
Good News: It’s Not Irreversible
Science, that trusty ally, brings hope. Researchers from the University of Eastern Finland, the University of Edinburgh, and ETH Zurich joined forces for a study that’s all about improving the biological responses of older adults through exercise. More precisely, they looked for aerobic activities that are both accessible to seniors and, cleverly, challenging for the brain.
Their research, published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine in October (and shared by Marie Claire), didn’t just rely on theory. Instead, they put this to the test with about twenty healthy adults, all over 65, and healthy as a horse (well, as a fit person over 65!).
What did these brave volunteers do? The researchers had them complete three different fun activities, each with a secret benefit:
- 6-kilometre session of Nordic walking
- 18-hole round of golf (for science, of course)
- 6-kilometre regular walk
No Sudoku or crossword puzzle in sight—this is all about movement and fresh air. And if you’re thinking, “That doesn’t sound so hard,” remember: even easygoing-sounding activities make a real impact when done right.
Surprising Results from Just One Session
Here’s where things get interesting. After only a single session of any of these three activities, researchers saw a boost in some lower cognitive functions—specifically, attention and processing speed. That’s right: just one outing could get your neurons firing with a little extra zip.
And for those who practiced Nordic walking or regular walking on a consistent basis, the news got even better. The physical movements involved didn’t just help with the brain’s basics—they actually improved executive functions, the kind we use for planning and carrying out tasks. This also led to better physical mastery—a win-win, because being more adept physically can help with independence and confidence.
To sum it up:
- Attention and processing speed: improved after a single session of any of the three activities
- Executive function: improved for those regularly Nordic walking or walking, thanks to all those body movements
- Physical control: also increased as a result
Expert Insights and a Glimpse Forward
Julia Kettinen, sports medicine physician at the Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Eastern Finland (and lead author of the study), put it best: “These results highlight the value of age-adapted aerobic exercise, and improve cognitive function in older adults. Previous research had already shown these exercises are also promising as a potential strategy for those suffering from cognitive problems.”
So, while the years may bring unwelcome shifts in the brain’s abilities, a regular round of golf, some enthusiastic Nordic walking, or a brisk walk could be among the most enjoyable prescriptions your doctor ever writes.
If there’s a takeaway, it’s this: protecting your brain after 65 doesn’t have to be a chore. Find an activity that gets you moving, keeps your mind engaged, and—who knows—maybe even gives you an excuse to dust off those golf shoes.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
