Lack of physical activity can accelerate memory loss, reduce circulation in the brain, and increase risks associated with cognitive decline.

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Published on 16/06/2026 at 13:21

Updated on 16/06/2026 at 13:22

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Studies link lack of physical activity to accelerated brain aging, while regular exercise helps circulation, stimulates neural connections, and can reduce memory-related risks

Recent studies indicate: lack of physical activity is associated with faster memory decline. Sedentary lifestyle and memory are linked by mechanisms involving reduced cerebral circulation, poorer oxygenation of neurons, and a reduction in important substances for learning, focus, and cognition during aging.

Lack of activities harms memory — Image: Reproduction

How lack of movement affects the brain

The absence of an active routine reduces blood flow to the brain. With less circulation, neurons receive less oxygen, which can impair processes related to memory and cognitive functioning.

Sedentary behavior also affects the production of essential substances for memory, such as noradrenaline and dopamine.

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Exercises stimulate neural connections and protect memory

During exercise, the body releases growth factors, including BDNF. This substance stimulates the formation of new connections between neurons and helps protect regions related to memory, such as the hippocampus.

Aerobic activities are considered especially protective. The effect of movement also appears in mood, focus, and learning ability at different life stages, not just in old age.

Studies Associate Physical Activity with Lower Cognitive Risk

The systematic review with meta-analysis “Does physical activity prevent cognitive decline and dementia?”, published in BMC Public Health and indexed in PubMed, reinforces the relationship between movement and brain health.

According to the study, people with higher levels of physical activity showed a 35% reduction in the risk of cognitive decline and about 14% in the risk of dementia compared to less active people.

The authors highlight that the effects remained consistent even in studies with follow-up longer than 10 years. This data reinforces the importance of physical activity as a continuous habit to preserve cognition.

Habits that Help Protect the Mind

It is not necessary to be an athlete to gain benefits. The recommendation presented in the material is to combine aerobic, strength, and balance exercises throughout the week, respecting individual pace and limitations.

Mind protection also depends on other care, such as sleeping between 7 and 9 hours per night, stimulating the brain with reading and games, maintaining social ties, adopting a diet rich in vegetables, fish, and olive oil, controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

In cases of frequent forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or significant decline in mental performance, the guidance is to seek a neurologist or geriatrician for proper evaluation and follow-up.

This article was prepared based on information from Tua Saúde and the systematic review with meta-analysis “Does physical activity prevent cognitive decline and dementia?”, published in BMC Public Health and indexed in PubMed, with data, numbers, and statements preserved as per the material consulted.

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Lack of physical activity can accelerate memory loss, reduce circulation in the brain, and increase risks associated with cognitive decline.

Studies link lack of physical activity to accelerated brain aging, while regular exercise helps circulation, stimulates neural connections, and can reduce memory-related risks

How lack of movement affects the brain

Exercises stimulate neural connections and protect memory

Studies Associate Physical Activity with Lower Cognitive Risk

Habits that Help Protect the Mind

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Lack of physical activity can accelerate memory loss, reduce circulation in the brain, and increase risks associated with cognitive decline.

Studies link lack of physical activity to accelerated brain aging, while regular exercise helps circulation, stimulates neural connections, and can reduce memory-related risks

How lack of movement affects the brain

Exercises stimulate neural connections and protect memory

Studies Associate Physical Activity with Lower Cognitive Risk

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