The more time you spend watching TV, the less likely you are to age healthily, a new study has found. In fact, swapping just one hour of TV time per day for walking or standing can improve your chances of a healthy old age.
A recent study from the JAMA Network Open highlights the critical role of light-intensity physical activity (LPA) in promoting healthy aging among older women.
The study, conducted by a team of researchers, followed over 45,000 participants from the Nurses' Health Study for 20 years to examine the impact of sedentary behaviors and light physical activity on healthy aging.
Overall, they found three key points. The study found that increased time spent sitting, particularly watching television, significantly decreased the odds of healthy aging. Each additional two hours per day spent watching television was associated with a 12 percent reduction in the likelihood of maintaining good health into older age, the study reported.
In contrast, engaging in light physical activities, such as standing or walking around at home or work, increased the odds of healthy aging, the study found. For instance, replacing one hour of television time with light physical activity at home or work increased the odds of healthy aging by 8 percent and 10 percent, respectively.
The study also confirmed that higher intensity activities also provide significant health benefits. Replacing one hour of sedentary behavior with moderate to vigorous physical activity resulted in a 28 percent increase in the odds of healthy aging.
The findings suggest that even modest increases in physical activity, particularly light activities, can contribute to healthier aging. This is especially relevant for older adults who may find it challenging to engage in more vigorous exercises. The research indicates that integrating more light physical activity into daily routines, such as household chores or standing while working, can have substantial health benefits.
This study underscores the importance of reducing sedentary time and incorporating more light physical activity into daily life to promote healthy aging. Simple changes, like standing more and sitting less, can make a significant difference in maintaining physical and mental health into older age.
Scientists are finding more and more evidence that minimal exercise is better than none because even low levels of physical activity offer significant health benefits. Engaging in light activities like walking or standing can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance overall well-being. Studies have shown that replacing sedentary time with light exercise improves cardiovascular health, boosts energy levels, and helps maintain a healthy weight. These small changes can cumulatively contribute to a longer, healthier life, proving that every bit of movement counts.
Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about ageing? Let us know via science@newsweek.com.
Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.
