A large-scale study published in JAMA examined whether exercise or mindfulness training could enhance cognitive function in older adults without a dementia diagnosis but experiencing memory changes. Conducted by researchers from Washington University School of Medicine and the University of California, San Diego, the study involved 585 participants aged 65 to 84, who were divided into four groups: exercise, mindfulness, both, and a control group receiving general health education. After 6 and 18 months, cognitive performance, measured through tests and brain scans, showed no significant improvement across the groups.
Despite the lack of cognitive benefits observed, the researchers emphasized that neither exercise nor mindfulness should be discounted entirely, as these practices have other health benefits, including lowering the risk of cardiovascular issues and enhancing mood. The study’s lead author, Eric J. Lenze, noted that while cognitive improvements weren’t realized, the participants did not experience cognitive decline either. Future research will explore the long-term effects of these interventions to determine their potential for preventing future cognitive decline in older adults. The study underscores the need for ongoing investigation into behavioral interventions for maintaining mental health in aging populations.
