seniors

Walking, perhaps the best fitness activity for seniors given the relatively low physical risks, not only provides better health and vitality but may also help preserve memory and cognitive function, claims a new study.

According to researchers, a brisk walk few times a week protects memory in old age by preventing the brain from shrinking.

Experts theorize that a physical activity like walking seems to counteract the natural deterioration of the brain tissue that happens as we grow older.

The study, published in 'The Journal of the American Medical Association,' has linked the walking speed among people in their 70s to life expectancy.

Faster walking may prolong life
In the latest study, researchers found that those who walked faster or 1 meter per second (about 2.25 mph) consistently lived longer than others of their age and sex who walked more slowly, as reported by several online health tabloids.

The study found that exer-games, video games which combine game play with exercise, significantly perked up mood and mental health-related quality of life in seniors suffering from depression.

Wii is indeed more than just a game console. Recently, Bridgeport Hospital’s Rehabilitation Unit at Fairfield County, Connecticut, U.S., has introduced Wii as part of its inpatient therapy and observing good results.

Even injured U.S. soldiers are believed to be using the game console in Landstuhl and Germany to help them regain their strength.

Subsyndromal Depression (SSD)