Weightlifting is good for your brain

Resistance training is good for body AND mind!

According to a number of recent studies, resistance exercise such as weightlifting, and bodyweight movements like squats and push-ups, have been shown to significantly improve memory and focus. Research indicates that high-intensity resistance training can impact the function of the hippocampus, a key region of the brain focused on memory performance. This suggests that regular resistance training could be helpful for cognitive health across different age groups, and even in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and other kinds of dementia.

​What to do:

1. Search resistance training exercises for memory loss studies online to explore the research available. 
2. Visit your doctor for a checkup and inform them of your plan to begin high-intensity resistance training.
3. Inquire if your health insurance program includes a free or discounted gym membership (many do).
4. If you have the resources, search for a personal trainer who specializes in weight training across different age groups, including seniors.
5. Search resistance training for seniors videos to find the many free tutorials that are available.
6. Build your exercise routine safely by starting slowly with easier exercises.
7. You don’t need long exercise sessions, but you do need to exercise consistently at least several times a week.

​Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency.

Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.

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Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence.

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© All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.

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