Seniors are encouraged to stay active, with strong evidence showing exercise promotes heart health, strengthens bones and muscles, and helps improve cognitive function. But a new study shows it can help your mental health as well. According to an article in Metabolic, “women over 60 who incorporated resistance training three times a week experienced reductions in anxiety and depression while also showing improvements in cognitive performance.”
Resistance training activities such as lifting dumbbells, utilizing resistance bands, or performing bodyweight exercises were found to increase the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin which are needed for mood regulation. This means fewer episodes of low mood or anxiety for seniors.
Researchers also noticed that study participants experienced enhancements in memory, verbal fluency, and mental agility. The article explains that “lifting weights improves blood circulation to the brain and stimulates neurotrophic factors that help maintain neural connections, protect against cognitive decline, and foster neuroplasticity.”
As an added bonus, the resistance training led to a boost in self-confidence. That’s because learning and mastering new skills creates a sense of achievement and empowerment.
To learn more about senior exercise and wellness, look through some of our other articles on Council of Seniors 365.
And be sure to stop by CouncilofSeniors.com to learn how we’re working to improve the financial well-being of America’s retirees.
