Physical Activity for Better Health and Drive (PhAB-HeaD)

Image

Donate to support dementia research

In 2050, it is estimated that 16% of the population will be made up of individuals aged 65 years and over. At this age, dementia rates begin doubling every six years, and more minor cognitive decline can threaten independence by making it harder to do day-to-day activities, like driving.

Though age can be associated with cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia, we can take action to keep ourselves as healthy and independent as possible. There is substantial evidence for the benefits of exercise, and the benefits of cognitive training for maintaining and improving cognitive health as we age. It is less clear is whether doing both exercise and cognitive training at the same time is more beneficial than doing them separately.

This research project explores the potential benefit of physical and cognitive training alone and a combined approach of concurrent physical and cognitive training as a protective mechanism against known cognitive changes due to ageing, such as a decline in cognitive function and driving skills.

The PhABHeaD study is a multi-disciplinary collaborative study that seeks to foster maximum engagement of all involved and achieve high-quality research in a supportive, ethical environment. The PhABHeaD study and related data are jointly owned by the Australian National University and the University of Canberra.

The published study protocol can be found here.

Findings & publications

Data collection for this study is now complete. We are currently analysing the data and preparing results for publication. The findings will be made available here when published.

Learn more about our research supported by the Dementia Research and Prevention Fund at ANU.