Dual-Task Exercises Improve Brain Functioning
Residents are always smiling when taking Jason’s strength classes.
We all know physical exercise is good for our bodies and brains. Aerobic exercise improves cardiovascular health, while resistance and strength training support cardiovascular and metabolic health. Exercise also has a protective effect, reducing inflammation and other conditions associated with cancer.
Knowing what is good for us and doing it are two separate things. Jason Cherry, Fitness Director at Prairie City Landing, understands that he first needs to get people to show up to make a difference. Fortunately, that’s something he excels at!
As someone who spends his vacations visiting amusement parks and his free time playing video games, it comes as no surprise that Jason knows a thing or two about fun. He looks at what makes games engaging and applies some of those concepts to his fitness classes. He’s also quick with a joke to liven the atmosphere. When fun becomes the purpose, and exercise is just the added benefit, people create an exercise habit. “I want to make the journey enjoyable. It’s not just about some end result,” Jason said.
Monthly Health Happy Hours are a fun way to move your body, challenge your brain, and laugh with others.
For thirty years, Jason has been a fitness instructor, and just like we are never “done” exercising, Jason has never stopped being curious and learning. Recently, many residents have shared their primary concern with Jason: dementia and related cognitive decline. Jason knew cardiovascular exercise increased blood flow to the brain and helped with mental functioning, but he was curious if there were other things he could incorporate in his classes to help address the concern.
With more than 25 classes offered each week, Jason ensures there is something for everyone.
He discovered a type of exercise that is especially beneficial for brain health called cognitive aerobics or dual-task exercises. As the name implies, this type of exercise asks people to do two things simultaneously—one physical exercise and one mental task. For example, Jason might cue a move to mirror him and then switch and say to follow him on the same side, asking participants to process how to move in a way that seems opposite. Or he might incorporate a move like fist to chest with one arm, palm stretched out at shoulder height with the other arm and then switch the cueing so it is palm to chest and fist out.
Like exercise, it sounds simple…until you try it! Research has found that this type of exercise is excellent at firing up multiple sections of the brain, which increases the strength of the neural pathways and protects healthy brain functioning. “The combination of physical and mental exercise may be the best health measure to improve overall cognitive brain health,” concluded Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, a researcher and chief director of the Center for BrainHealth at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Nature walks each week invite residents to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while getting in their steps and visiting with one another.
Currently, Jason adds these moves to his classes, but he’d like to create an entire class focused on cognitive aerobics in the future. This type of ingenuity and responsiveness to residents is part of everything Jason does. Whether it’s a resident requesting line dancing and Jason learning how to teach it, or responding to comments about offering a healthier alternative to happy hour, Jason is constantly developing new, fun ways to help improve the lives of others. His first priority, though, is to help make their lives joyful. “If it also improves their health, then that’s even better!” Jason adds.
If you’re curious about having fun in one of Jason’s classes, you can catch him once a week at the Folsom Senior Center. Or, come on by Prairie City Landing and ask to try one of his many classes! You’ll be sure to leave with a smile on your face…and maybe stronger biceps, too!
Learn more about our extensive (and fun!) fitness program, as well as our other engaging events in our Guide: Signature Programs at Tenfold Senior Living.
