8 Active Aging Week | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2025 T here’s an old saying: if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it. And while the saying seems cliché – and usually pertains to the fact that if you don’t stay active, By Todd Lewys
MOBILITY & COGNITION ARE A TEAM
There are also other low impact activities that also offer great physical benefits.
“Do some yoga or tai chi or lift some light weights. Yoga and tai chi help with finer movements and balance, while the weights will help you maintain muscle tone.” At the same time, if you’re at home on a day off from the group walk, add some mental activity by doing some tai chi or yoga, for example. “Take the time to have a conversation with someone,” she says. “Having regular interaction with others plays a huge part in keep the brain engaged. You might also want to take up a musical instrument. Music is way up on the list of things to do because it’s fun, educational – and stimulates your brain as you learn something new.” The bottom line is that there is no downside to making the effort to stay physically and mentally active. “Aerobic activity – any activity that increases your heart rate for a sustained period, such as walking, swimming or biking – gets your blood flowing throughout the body and in the brain. Strength training improves posture and can improve balance, while dance, yoga and tai chi challenge both the body and the mind.” Even multi-tasking by doing something as simple as walking and talking at the same time is also beneficial, as motor skills and cognitive skills are engaged at the same time. “Like dance partners, both mobility and cognition need to be in sync to perform smoothly as you age. That’s why it’s so important to stay physically active and mentally engaged.”
you will decline physically – it turns out that it pertains to both physical and mental health. “The reality is that many people don’t necessarily do enough,” says Linda Brown, executive director of Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM). “Your level of activity can have a big effect on how well – or how poorly – you age.” In fact, recent studies are showing that physical activity and mental acuity are closely linked. “New research is showing that a sedentary lifestyle hardens cognitive function, which is to say that if you’re not physically active, there’s a good chance that your mental function will decline along with body function. Some people sit around for more than eight hours per day. That’s just not healthy.”
Why is that?
“Simply put, physical activity improves circulation, which improves oxygen and nutrient flow to the brain. The areas of the brain that are involved in movement are also responsible for attention, memory and executive functions,” explains Brown. “So, when you don’t exercise enough, both your physical and mental functions suffer.” While many folks aged 55-plus have mobility issues or may not have a car, it’s imperative to make the effort to get out and do as much as you can, as often as you can.
Venturing out to walk the dog is a fun, low-key activity that helps maintain mobility and cognition.
PHOTO BY GETTY IMAGES
Brown adds that the importance of socializing can’t be overstated.
“Combining physical, cognitive and social activities is the most effective way for older adults to remain independent and mentally sharp. It’s so important to keep moving and being active and engaged.”
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Brown has one more thing to add.:
“Both sitting too long and a lack of socialization have been compared to the harm that smoking does to your body. Being active not only stimulates the body and brain, but it also provides an opportunity to get out and make friendships where you get out with others and stimulate your brain with conversation.” On days when group activities aren’t scheduled, it’s important to do things that get you up off the couch. “When people sit too long, they tend to get drowsy and lethargic,” notes Brown. “So, get up. Go for a walk or do some gardening. Get the blood pumping and get rid of that brain fog.”
“Fuel your body, mind and stride on October 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join us for our fun-filled celebration of Active Aging Week. This event includes a keynote speaker to start the day, a stretch class followed by an invigorating walk which will include Urban Poles as an option. Enjoy a three course lunch and a chance to make some new social connections.“
COMBINING PHYSICAL, COGNITIVE AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY FOR OLDER
In other words, older adults must plan to be active because well-being literally depends on it.
“For example, arrange to go on a group walk several times a week. Not only will
ADULTS TO REMAIN INDEPENDENT AND MENTALLY SHARP.”
that get you out of your house or apartment, but you’ll not only get exercise while you walk, but you’ll be socializing as you have a conversation while you walk.”
For more information, visit www.activeagingmb.ca or call 204-632-3947
Linda Brown, executive director, Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM)
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