Exercise Boosts Brain Function Among Stroke Survivors

In that people who have cognitive deficits after stroke have a threefold risk of mortality, and they’re more likely to be institutionalized, Susan Marzolini, from the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute (Canada), and colleagues studied 41 stroke survivors, of whom 70% had mild to moderate walking problems requiring a cane or walker, who followed an adapted aerobic and strength/resistance training program five days a week. Exercises designed to imitate daily life included walking, lifting weights and doing squats.  The research team found “significant improvements” in overall brain function at the conclusion of the program, with the most improvement in attention, concentration, planning and organizing. Muscular strength and walking ability also increased.  The lead author comments that: “these results provide compelling evidence that by improving cardiovascular fitness through aerobic exercise and increasing muscle mass with resistance training, people with stroke can improve brain health.”