Stroke Risk Low in Elderly Who Exercise Regularly

A new study conducted by researchers from the Columbia University and the University of Miami has found that elderly people who regularly exercise have a lower risk of suffering from strokes compared to those who do not exercise. The researchers, led by Columbia University’s Dr Joshua Willey, talked with more than 1,200 people over the age of 55 years and who were already involved in a study looking into the link between physical activity and stroke. The researchers then conducted brain scans on the participants to find any evidence of “silent” strokes.

In their report published in the journal Neurology, the researchers wrote than over 16 percent of those who undertook brain scans were found to have suffered from silent strokes or silent brain infarcts. Those who indulged in physical activity were the least likely to have suffered from such strokes.

Speaking to Reuters Health, Willey said, “We know that light to moderate exercise helps with many other conditions. And we don't want our results to discourage our patients from doing exercise. Any is better than none, just in general, for overall health. And it seems to be, the more the better.”

Source-Medindia