As the holiday season approaches and we find ourselves with a bit more time to unwind, many of us will be faced with a choice that seems as trivial as it is habitual: to dive into the latest page-turner or to catch up on our favourite TV shows. However, recent research from the University of South Australia suggests that this decision could significantly affect our long-term cognitive health.

In a study that assessed the 24-hour activity patterns of 397 older adults aged 60 and above, researchers discovered that not all leisure activities are created equal when preserving our brain function. The findings, published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, indicate that engaging in certain sedentary behaviours can be more beneficial for cognitive function than others.


While it's common knowledge that physical activity is a powerful deterrent against dementia, this new research sheds light on the cognitive impact of our quieter moments. The study found that mentally stimulating and socially engaging activities such as reading, listening to music, crafting, playing a musical instrument, or having a good chat can have a positive effect on memory and thinking abilities. Conversely, more passive activities like watching TV or playing video games were linked to detrimental effects on cognitive function.


Dr Maddison Mellow, a researcher at UniSA, emphasises that not all sedentary behaviours are equal when it comes to memory and thinking ability. 'The context of an activity alters how it relates to cognitive function,' she explains. 'Activities that promote mental stimulation or social engagement are beneficial for cognitive function, whereas others have a negative effect.'


This insight is particularly valuable given that dementia is a growing concern in Australia, where approximately 411,100 people are living with the condition, and globally, with the World Health Organization reporting over 55 million people affected and nearly 10 million new cases each year. With at least 45 per cent of dementia cases potentially preventable through modifiable lifestyle factors, understanding the hierarchy of sedentary behaviours in relation to cognitive function could be a game-changer.

So, what should we do with this information, especially during the festive season when the temptation to binge-watch Christmas movies is at its peak? Dr Mellow advises a balanced approach. 'Prioritize movement that's enjoyable and gets the heart rate up,' she says, acknowledging the comprehensive health benefits of physical activity. 'But even small five-minute time swaps can have benefits.'

For those who can't resist the allure of a holiday film marathon, Dr Mellow suggests interspersing viewing with physical activity or engaging in a cognitively stimulating seated activity, like reading. This not only breaks up long periods of inactivity but also helps to cultivate healthier habits that can contribute to better brain health.


At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the importance of keeping our minds sharp as we age. We encourage our members to consider these findings when planning their leisure time. Perhaps this is the perfect opportunity to revisit an old literary favourite or explore a new genre. Not only will you be transported to different worlds through the magic of storytelling, but you'll also be taking active steps to protect your cognitive health.
We'd love to hear from you, our dear readers. Have you found that certain activities keep your mind more engaged than others? Do you have a favourite book that you return to time and again? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below, and let's inspire each other to make choices that benefit our brains as much as they do our hearts.