Physically active adults have higher concentration skills, which may help maintain memory and combat dementia.  A study by researchers at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (USA) found that sedentary lifestyles directly contribute to the decline in cognitive abilities and quality of sleep as we age.  In this study, men and women ages 67 to 86, who were functionally independent, participated in a two-week study involving a regimen of 30 minutes of mild physical activity, 30 minutes of social interaction, and a final 30 minutes of mild to moderate physical activity.  Sessions began with warm-up stretching and mild to moderate physical activity (walking, stationary upper and lower body exercises).  The final period of mild to moderate physical activity included rapid walking, calisthenics or dancing.  A 10-minute cool-down concluded the 90-minute regimen.  At the end of the two-week period, all participants demonstrated a 4 to 6% improvement in cognitive performance, and improved sleep quality (including deeper sleep and fewer awakenings).   

"To keep the body in good health is a duty … otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear." ~ Buddha