In recent years there has been a sales boom in so-called “brain training” computer games and puzzles.
But now researchers suggest keeping physically fit may be more important than mental work-outs.
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It was found that regular jogging, walking or gym sessions can slash the risk of cognitive decline – where the brain struggles with everyday tasks such as remembering names or processing information – by almost 40 per cent.
Even a weekly game of golf or daily mile-long stroll reduced the risk by 35 per cent by sustaining blood flow to the brain or stimulating brain cell proteins.
Experts at the University of Florence based their findings on 15 separate studies.