Northeastern University researchers have discovered a connection between brain changes and reduced physical activity in middle age [1]. The study, featured in the Journal of Gerontology, indicates that neural mechanisms might play a role in this decline [1].
The research team analyzed data from the Cambridge Centre for Ageing and Neuroscience, focusing on individuals aged 18 to 81 [1, 11]. Using piecewise regression, they identified approximately age 49 as the point when physical activity typically starts to decrease [11]. Brain scans were then examined to find neural correlates associated with this decline [1].
The study emphasizes the importance of executive functions, particularly the salience network, in maintaining an active lifestyle [1]. The salience network, which includes regions like the insula and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, helps individuals respond to environmental stimuli and manages habitual impulses [1].