At the University of Pittsburgh, it was found that older adults who remain active throughout the day are happier and do better on cognitive tests.
The study emphasizes that patterns of activity rather than activity intensity are better for aging and psychological health.
1,800 American elderly people participated in the research. Their daily activity patterns were measured using devices like accelerometers.
The study was published in JAMA Psychiatry.
“In this cross-sectional study, findings indicate that approximately 1 in 5 older adults in the US may be classified in a subgroup with weak activity patterns and later settling, and approximately 1 in 10 may be classified in a subgroup with weak patterns and shorter active duration,” according to the findings.
“Future research is needed to investigate the biologic processes related to these behavioral phenotypes, including why earlier and robust activity patterns appear protective, and whether modifying disrupted patterns improves outcomes.”
