Using a computer may protect against memory loss late in life, as long as you also make sure to exercise, a new study suggests.

Using a computer may protect against memory loss late in life, as long as you also make sure to exercise, a new study suggests.
    In the study, which(36)included older adults, computer use and exercise reduced the risk of memory loss, whereas doing either activity alone did not.
    Participants who engaged in moderate physical activity and used a computer were 64 percent less likely to have mild cognitive impairment, MCI,(38)compared with those who did not exercise and did not use a computer.
    MCI is a(39)condition in which people experience(40)noticeable declines in their cognitive function, including memory and language problems, but are still able to perform everyday activities.
    "The(41)aging of baby boomers is projected to lead to dramatic increases in the(42)prevalence of dementia(痴呆)." said study researcher Dr. Yonas Geda, a physician scientist. "As frequent computer use has become(43)increasingly common among all age groups, it is important to examine how it relates to aging and dementia. "
    However, the study relied on participants to remember how often they had exercised or used a computer in the past year. More studies that follow people forward in time to confirm the results will be needed. Some previous studies have found a link between exercise and a reduced risk of MCI.(45)While_oth-ers have linked cognitive activities, such as reading books. playing games or using a computer. But no studies have examined the combined effects of exercise and computer use.
    Participants were asked whether they had engaged in moderate physical activities and how frequently they participated in the activities. They were also asked about the extent of their computer use.