Exercise can reduce the risk of dementia, improve cognitive function

(http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-25202903) The Cochrane Collaboration recently conducted research into eight exercise trials involving over 300 dementia patients. Their assessment found that, although exercise did little to improve the mood of the participants, it did help them with performing daily tasks, such as walking or standing up, and improved cognitive function.

Everyone should regularly exercise, as it helps improve health overall, lowering obesity, diabetes and heart disease risks, among others. This research shows that it can also lower the risk of dementia and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's; however, the researchers note that "further research is needed to be able to develop best practice guidelines to enable healthcare providers to advise people with dementia living at home or in institutions." More studies are also needed in order to determine the best level and intensity of exercise to benefit dementia patients.

Dr. Laura Phipps of Alzheimer's Research UK said: "We do know that exercise is an important part of keeping healthy, and though we can't say that exercise will prevent dementia, evidence does suggest it can help reduce the risk of the condition as part of a healthy lifestyle."