Performing these 5 household chores can reduce the risk of dementia

Dementia is a chronic mental health condition that is diagnosed in millions of elderly people across the globe every year. The umbrella term used to describe a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking and social abilities can severely affect a person's day to day life. There is no way to stop the condition from developing nor it can be treated. It can only be managed with the help of medications and therapies.

However, there is always an option to cut down the risk of infection by taking some small measures from an early age and staying physically active is one of them. Studies suggest that staying active including performing some household chores can cut down the risk of dementia later in life.

As per a study, general mundane activities like cleaning and gardening can lower the risk of dementia and even make it manageable if performed regularly. Engaging in certain household chores helps to create greater brain volume. Surprisingly, those who performed household chores had greater brain volume as compared to those who perform any kind of strenuous physical exercise. The study published in the journal Neurology specifically mentioned 5 household chores that can be beneficial for those suffering from dementia.

Cleaning and your mental health have a strong link. Decluttering the home and space around you can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Cleaning is meditative, which helps to release endorphins in the brain, altering the perception of pain and triggering a positive feeling. It also helps to improve concentration and lift your mood, a common area of concern in the case of dementia.

Studies suggest that keeping your space messed up can make the symptoms of depression worse. Besides, it leads to decreased focus, confusion, and tension. Keeping your surroundings arranged can provide a sense of self-control over the environment and also eases the stress level. For people suffering from dementia, decluttering can help to concentrate and decreases the episodes of mood swings.

Cooking is not only a random household task. It is a brain-stimulating activity, which helps to keep your brain healthy. This activity strengthens the frontal lobes of the brain and improves all sorts of functions related to it. Getting to know herbs and spices can improve sensory acuity and memory. Most important of all paying attention to the recipe helps to improve attention and optimise brain functioning.

Spending time in nature may help to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Gardening helps you connect with others and reduce your stress level. It boosts mental well-being and helps to develop healthy relationships with others. Besides, spending some time in the Sun can also lift your mood and make you feel calm.

Heavy household chores including mopping, cleaning dishes and laundry also have a positive impact on your mental health. It helps to ease the symptoms of depression, which is linked with the onset of dementia in several cases. It also lifts your mood and gives a sense of satisfaction. However, those suffering from joint issues should avoid performing heavy load work as it may lead to fracture.