Multinational Joint Study: A Healthy Lifestyle Can Effectively Slow Cognitive Decline in the Elderly

GENEVA, (Xinhua) — Findings from a long-term cohort study jointly conducted by research teams from China, the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia have been newly released. The research confirms that sticking to healthy daily habits can markedly slow memory loss and brain function deterioration among the elderly, and greatly curb the progression of cognitive disorders including Alzheimer’s disease. It provides solid evidence for the global prevention and control of age-related brain health problems.

A new study from the United States also shows that lifestyle improvements such as regular exercise, balanced diets and frequent social interaction can delay or even halt cognitive decline. Experts note that this low-cost and highly effective measure will improve care for neurodegenerative illnesses such as dementia, and substantially ease the burden on patients’ families and public health systems worldwide.

The decade-long research tracked nearly 40,000 middle-aged and older adults aged 50 and above. Researchers regularly ran cognitive assessments covering memory and reaction speed, while continuously recording participants’ exercise, diet, social activities, sleep schedule and tobacco and alcohol consumption. Subjects were divided into three groups for comparison: those strictly following a healthy lifestyle, those partially meeting the standards, and those leading sedentary and irregular lives.

Statistics indicate that people who maintain regular aerobic exercise, balanced nutrition, active social contact and moderate drinking with no smoking experienced cognitive decline nearly 40 percent slower than those with sedentary lifestyles, poor diets and long-term isolation. Even for carriers of high-risk genes for cognitive deterioration, healthy habits can offset genetic risks and prolong healthy brain life by several years. The study highlights four practical measures to preserve senior cognitive function: light physical activity like brisk walking every week, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, consistent reading and learning, and sustained social connections.

The lead researcher pointed out that global population ageing is accelerating, driving up medical costs for dementia, while effective prescription drugs remain scarce. This multinational research further proves that cognitive ageing is not determined solely by genetics, and acquired lifestyle intervention represents the most affordable and widely applicable preventive approach.

Senior experts on healthy ageing at the World Health Organization praised the research outcomes. They called on all countries to integrate health education on lifestyle into public health policies for the ageing population, launch brain health management starting from middle age, help hundreds of millions of seniors retain independent thinking and daily living abilities, and achieve healthy ageing.

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