What is the influence of lifestyle changes on the brain? Five Dutch research centres, including Maastricht University, will conduct joint research into this.
The question is whether a healthy diet, exercise and brain training can slow the decline in the thinking ability of older people.
The Finnish parent study FINGER has already shown that exercise in combination with a healthy diet, good cardiovascular health control and brain training can prevent the deterioration of the thinking ability of the elderly. Research centers around the world are now conducting further research.
Lifestyle guidance
In the Netherlands, 1200 people are being sought for the FINGER-NL study. In Limburg there is room for 240 participants. These people are followed for two years. They are guided by a lifestyle coach. Weight, height, diet, relaxation, sleep and social activities are taken into account.
An unhealthy lifestyle is a risk factor for the decline in our thinking ability. The mind is about being able to remember things, learn new things and keep our attention. More and more people notice that their memory or thinking ability deteriorates as they get older. As we get older, we are also more likely to be confronted with brain diseases such as dementia.
Ultimate proof
dr. Sebastian Köhler is a researcher at the Alzheimer Centrum Limburg (part of UM and MUMC+) and one of the leaders of the study: “The idea that a healthy lifestyle is important for your brain is still relatively new. With FINGER-NL we want to provide the ultimate proof that what is good for your heart is also good for your brain.” The participants in this study are between 60 and 79 years old. With the results of the study, a more targeted lifestyle advice can be given, with the aim of preventing a decline in the thinking ability of the elderly.
Would you like to participate in the research yourself?
Are you between 60 and 79 years old and interested in participating in this study? on
you can sign up.