Health and Me

Ishita Roy

What Are Empathy Fatigue And Compassion Fatigue?

In an age where caring for others often extends beyond professional roles into daily life, many people find themselves emotionally drained. This emotional weariness is known as <span>empathy fatigue</span> or compassion fatigue—conditions once primarily linked to healthcare providers and therapists but now increasingly seen in educators, caregivers, social workers, and even parents.

Empathy fatigue is the emotional exhaustion that results from consistently absorbing and responding to the pain or trauma of others. The term was coined by Professor Mark Stebnicki of East Carolina University after he observed the emotional toll on crisis responders supporting survivors of a school shooting. He noted that professionals in “high-touch” roles—those requiring deep emotional connection—are especially vulnerable.

When you engage empathetically, you don’t just understand another person’s emotions; you feel them. Over time, this continuous emotional involvement can result in feeling numb, overwhelmed, or completely detached. You may begin to notice you’re no longer able to “care” the way you once did.

<h4><span rel="noindex">Compassion Fatigue</span> vs Empathy Fatigue</h4>

While often used interchangeably, there are key differences between compassion fatigue and empathy fatigue.

Compassion fatigue, sometimes referred to as secondary traumatic stress, occurs when someone who is typically motivated to help others begins to feel emotionally depleted and detached. It stems from the ongoing desire to help those in pain but feeling helpless in the process.

Empathy fatigue, on the other hand, arises when you emotionally absorb others’ distress to the point where it starts triggering your own past wounds or traumas. It is a deeper, more internalized response that can lead to feeling completely disconnected from one’s ability to empathize.

Unlike burnout—which is caused by workplace stress—empathy and compassion fatigue stem specifically from emotional over-involvement, often leading to symptoms like irritability, insomnia, physical exhaustion, and even a lack of enjoyment in activities that once brought joy.

<h4>Why Is Empathy Fatigue on the Rise?</h4>

Several factors are contributing to the increasing prevalence of empathy fatigue. The blurring boundaries between work and home, global crises, social upheaval, and economic uncertainty all play a part. Many people today juggle multiple stressors—job pressures, caregiving duties, personal losses—without adequate time or tools for emotional recovery.

Our desire for control in chaotic times can amplify this fatigue. When people are constantly bombarded with situations they can’t fix, it can trigger feelings of powerlessness, hopelessness, and even guilt.

Four major factors increase susceptibility to empathy fatigue:

<strong>Lack of self-awareness:</strong> Continuously putting others first without tending to your own needs can quickly lead to emotional depletion.

<strong>Poor boundaries: </strong>Not separating personal time from caregiving or work responsibilities increases resentment and stress.

<strong>Sudden loss:</strong> Grief or unexpected changes can destabilize your emotional core, making it hard to cope.

<strong>Multiple, compounded stressors:</strong> Managing several issues at once can overwhelm even the most resilient person.

<h4>Ways to Recover and Protect Yourself</h4>

Fortunately, empathy and compassion fatigue can be managed with the right strategies. These include:

<ul><li>Recognising and naming your feelings without judgement.</li><li>Practising mindfulness to stay grounded in the present.</li><li>Taking breaks, even short ones, to recharge.</li><li>Asking for help and leaning on your support system.</li><li>Reconnecting to purpose, through meaningful activities or relationships.</li><li>Engaging in joyful or playful activities, even if they feel small or silly.</li></ul>

As Professor Stebnicki notes, recovery requires a long-term commitment to self-awareness and self-care. The more in tune you are with your emotional needs, the better you’ll be able to protect your empathy—without letting it drain you.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

empathy fatigue

health and wellness

compassion fatigue

mental health

mental wellness

mental health and wellness

Could Sparkling Water Be Causing Stomach Pain And Digestive Distress?

Untimely Rainfall Leaves The Country Prone To These Infectious Diseases

This 'Sweet and Sour' Fruit Juice Can Help Ease Sore Throat While Reducing Your Cancer Risk

Health & Wellness

Healthy Drinks That Improve Your Digestion

World Tobacco Day: Unexpected Ways Smoking Can Affect You

Seasonal Mood Swings? How Weather Affects Mental Health

Is Calorie Counting Healthy? Dos And Don’ts

Heat-Related Illnesses That You Should Know

Menstrual Hygiene Day: Tips On Period Hygiene

​Add These High Protein Vegetarian Meals To Your Diet​

Top 10 Workouts That Burn Most Calorie

Makhana Season – Healthy &amp; Quick Foxnut Recipes

Monsoon Ahead – Tips On Building Rainy Season Immunity

Do You Have Prickly Heat Rash – Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

Healthy No-Cook Recipes You Can Try

How Do You Calorie Count – Numbers And Nutrients

Unexpected Signs Of Dehydration – Safety And Precaution Measures

Leg Exercises You Can Do At Home To Build Strength

Foods That Promote Skin Elasticity

Must-Do Chest Exercises You Can Try At Home

What Are The Symptoms Of JN.1 COVID-19 Strain?

Why Does Sleeping Become Harder As You Age?

High-Fiber Healthy Drinks You Should Try

10 Dumbbell Exercise Variations For Upper-Body Strength

A Parent’s Guide To Pets: Important Points To Consider For Your Child’s Health

Food Anxiety Is Real – How Your Food Intake Affects Your Anxiety

World Osteoporosis Month: Ways To Strengthen Your Bones

Brain Exercises To Keep You Cognitively Sharp

Easy Recipes To Make When You Don’t Wish To Cook

Physical Signs Of High Cortisol

9 Healthy Plant-Based Protein Rich Dishes To Try

What Happens When You Have Low Blood Pressure?

Throw These Toxic Bathroom Items Away To Protect Your Health

This Is What Cricket Superstar Virat Kohli Eats In A Day

Signs You Are Experiencing Sensory Overload

Shoulder Exercises You Should Do For Defined Shoulders

Best Foods To Eat When You Are Fasting

​Ghee For Ayurveda: Why It Should Be A Part Of Your Diet​

Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer You Should Know

Yoga Poses That Can Build Core Strength

Biotin-Rich Foods You Should Add To Your Diet

Unexpected Physical Signs Of Stress

Simple And Affective Guide To Stop A Panic Attack

In an age where caring for others often extends beyond professional roles into daily life, many people find themselves emotionally drained. This emotional weariness is known as empathy fatigue or compassion fatigue—conditions once primarily linked to healthcare providers and therapists but now increasingly seen in educators, caregivers, social workers, and even parents.What Is Empathy Fatigue?Empathy fatigue is the emotional exhaustion that results from consistently absorbing and responding to the pain or trauma of others. The term was coined by Professor Mark Stebnicki of East Carolina University after he observed the emotional toll on crisis responders supporting survivors of a school shooting. He noted that professionals in “high-touch” roles—those requiring deep emotional connection—are especially vulnerable.When you engage empathetically, you don’t just understand another person’s emotions; you feel them. Over time, this continuous emotional involvement can result in feeling numb, overwhelmed, or completely detached. You may begin to notice you’re no longer able to “care” the way you once did.Compassion Fatigue vs Empathy FatigueWhile often used interchangeably, there are key differences between compassion fatigue and empathy fatigue.Compassion fatigue, sometimes referred to as secondary traumatic stress, occurs when someone who is typically motivated to help others begins to feel emotionally depleted and detached. It stems from the ongoing desire to help those in pain but feeling helpless in the process.Empathy fatigue, on the other hand, arises when you emotionally absorb others’ distress to the point where it starts triggering your own past wounds or traumas. It is a deeper, more internalized response that can lead to feeling completely disconnected from one’s ability to empathize.Unlike burnout—which is caused by workplace stress—empathy and compassion fatigue stem specifically from emotional over-involvement, often leading to symptoms like irritability, insomnia, physical exhaustion, and even a lack of enjoyment in activities that once brought joy.Why Is Empathy Fatigue on the Rise?Several factors are contributing to the increasing prevalence of empathy fatigue. The blurring boundaries between work and home, global crises, social upheaval, and economic uncertainty all play a part. Many people today juggle multiple stressors—job pressures, caregiving duties, personal losses—without adequate time or tools for emotional recovery.Our desire for control in chaotic times can amplify this fatigue. When people are constantly bombarded with situations they can’t fix, it can trigger feelings of powerlessness, hopelessness, and even guilt.Key Triggers and Risk FactorsFour major factors increase susceptibility to empathy fatigue:Lack of self-awareness: Continuously putting others first without tending to your own needs can quickly lead to emotional depletion.Poor boundaries: Not separating personal time from caregiving or work responsibilities increases resentment and stress.Sudden loss: Grief or unexpected changes can destabilize your emotional core, making it hard to cope.Multiple, compounded stressors: Managing several issues at once can overwhelm even the most resilient person.Ways to Recover and Protect YourselfFortunately, empathy and compassion fatigue can be managed with the right strategies. These include:Recognising and naming your feelings without judgement.Practising mindfulness to stay grounded in the present.Taking breaks, even short ones, to recharge.Asking for help and leaning on your support system.Reconnecting to purpose, through meaningful activities or relationships.Engaging in joyful or playful activities, even if they feel small or silly.As Professor Stebnicki notes, recovery requires a long-term commitment to self-awareness and self-care. The more in tune you are with your emotional needs, the better you’ll be able to protect your empathy—without letting it drain you.

what are empathy fatigue and compassion fatigue?

Aarushi Bhadury

(Credit-Canva)

untimely rainfall leaves the country prone to these infectious diseases

Nutrition

this unexpected fruit juice can not only help with sore throat but also reduce cancer risk, study suggests

Ayurveda

Ayurvedic Fruit That Can Help You With Hair Growth And Better Your Digestive Health

ayurvedic fruit that can help you with hair growth and better your digestive health

What Are The Physical Symptoms Of Stress?

what are the physical symptoms of stress?

While there have been many debates about sparkling water and whether it is safe for consumption, studies have shown that it has many benefits for our health but what is sparkling water aka carbonated water? Carbonated water is water which has been infused with carbon dioxide gas, which creates the bubbly drink. They are served as club soda, sparkling water, soda water etc. What makes it different from normal water is that the carbon dioxide in the sparkling water produces carbonic acid, which is a weak acid that causes a burning prickly sensation. 

Research has shown that it can actually help improve our digestion, and they make a great addition to other drinks as well. Many of us love the refreshing fizz of sparkling water, but a doctor warns it might not be as healthy as still water for everyone. Dr. Julio Maset, known as @cinfasalud on Instagram, explains that while both sparkling and still water hydrate and have no calories, they aren't always interchangeable. 

Sparkling water can help with digestion and ease that heavy feeling after a big meal. However, it's crucial to understand when still water is the better choice for your body.

Experts caution that some people should avoid sparkling water. If you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux (acid reflux) or <span>irritable bowel syndrome</span> (IBS), sparkling water might cause discomfort. Experts also point out that sparkling water is more acidic in the mouth, which could potentially erode dental enamel over time, though not as much as sugary drinks. To minimize this risk, it's best to drink it with meals and in moderation. The main takeaway is not to completely replace still water; it remains the top choice for daily hydration. However, sparkling water can be a healthy swap if it means cutting out sugary soft drinks. 

<h2>Link Between Carbonation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)</h2>

According to Livestrong, certain foods and drinks can trigger symptoms for people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), even though the exact connection isn't fully understood. Carbonated drinks, including sparkling water, are on this list, alongside dairy, beans, wheat, cabbage, and citrus fruits. 

While drinking carbonated beverages won't cause IBS or diarrhea, they can definitely trigger bloating and gas because you're literally consuming gas bubbles. If these bubbly drinks also contain sugar or artificial sweeteners, they're even more likely to cause diarrhea for those sensitive to them. 

<h2>What Are Some Other Foods To Avoid In IBS </h2>

Milk and dairy containing lactose can cause gas and bloating for many. Most adults don't make enough lactase to digest it. However, yogurt is often an exception, as its live cultures break down lactose, reducing gassy symptoms. 

High-fructose corn syrup in processed foods can worsen IBS symptoms. Even healthy foods like apples, pears, and dried fruits are naturally high in fructose. For IBS, berries, citrus, and bananas might be better choices. 

The bubbles in carbonated drinks like soda and seltzer can cause gas. Stick to water and lactose-free milk. Caffeine in coffee, tea, and cola can also increase diarrhea, a common IBS symptom. 

Many sugar-free gums use artificial sweeteners like sorbitol and xylitol, which can cause diarrhea. Chewing gum also makes you swallow more air, leading to extra gassiness and discomfort. 

diet & nutrition

sparkling water benefits

irritable bowel syndrome

ibs syndrome

stomach ache

what is carbonated water

While there have been many debates about sparkling water and whether it is safe for consumption, studies have shown that it has many benefits for our health but what is sparkling water aka carbonated water? Carbonated water is water which has been infused with carbon dioxide gas, which creates the bubbly drink. They are served as club soda, sparkling water, soda water etc. What makes it different from normal water is that the carbon dioxide in the sparkling water produces carbonic acid, which is a weak acid that causes a burning prickly sensation. Research has shown that it can actually help improve our digestion, and they make a great addition to other drinks as well. Many of us love the refreshing fizz of sparkling water, but a doctor warns it might not be as healthy as still water for everyone. Dr. Julio Maset, known as @cinfasalud on Instagram, explains that while both sparkling and still water hydrate and have no calories, they aren't always interchangeable. Sparkling water can help with digestion and ease that heavy feeling after a big meal. However, it's crucial to understand when still water is the better choice for your body.Experts caution that some people should avoid sparkling water. If you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux (acid reflux) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), sparkling water might cause discomfort. Experts also point out that sparkling water is more acidic in the mouth, which could potentially erode dental enamel over time, though not as much as sugary drinks. To minimize this risk, it's best to drink it with meals and in moderation. The main takeaway is not to completely replace still water; it remains the top choice for daily hydration. However, sparkling water can be a healthy swap if it means cutting out sugary soft drinks. Link Between Carbonation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)According to Livestrong, certain foods and drinks can trigger symptoms for people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), even though the exact connection isn't fully understood. Carbonated drinks, including sparkling water, are on this list, alongside dairy, beans, wheat, cabbage, and citrus fruits. While drinking carbonated beverages won't cause IBS or diarrhea, they can definitely trigger bloating and gas because you're literally consuming gas bubbles. If these bubbly drinks also contain sugar or artificial sweeteners, they're even more likely to cause diarrhea for those sensitive to them. What Are Some Other Foods To Avoid In IBS Dairy Products Milk and dairy containing lactose can cause gas and bloating for many. Most adults don't make enough lactase to digest it. However, yogurt is often an exception, as its live cultures break down lactose, reducing gassy symptoms. Foods High in Fructose High-fructose corn syrup in processed foods can worsen IBS symptoms. Even healthy foods like apples, pears, and dried fruits are naturally high in fructose. For IBS, berries, citrus, and bananas might be better choices. Fizzy Drinks and Caffeine The bubbles in carbonated drinks like soda and seltzer can cause gas. Stick to water and lactose-free milk. Caffeine in coffee, tea, and cola can also increase diarrhea, a common IBS symptom. Sugar-Free Gum Many sugar-free gums use artificial sweeteners like sorbitol and xylitol, which can cause diarrhea. Chewing gum also makes you swallow more air, leading to extra gassiness and discomfort. 

drinking sparkling water if you have this condition may be causing you stomach symptoms

Man Dies After Tick Bite ‘Blew Up’ His Brain: What Kind Of Ticks Carry The Deadly Powassan Virus?

man dies after tick bite ‘blew up’ his brain: what kind of ticks carry the deadly powassan virus?

Health News

Covid Cases Surge Again In India, But This Time It’s Your Stomach And Throat That Suffer First; New Symptoms To Note

covid cases surge again in india, but this time it’s your stomach and throat that suffer first; new symptoms to note

Pregnant Amid The JN.1 Covid Surge? What Expecting Moms Must Know, According to Experts

pregnant amid the jn.1 covid surge? what expecting moms must know, according to experts

India is no stranger to the <span>monsoon</span>, but in recent times, <span>untimely rainfall</span>, during the summers has become a recurring and worrying pattern. Sudden downpours and extended wet spells, often hitting before or after the traditional monsoon season, have created favorable conditions for a surge in seasonal <span>diseases</span>. Public health experts are increasingly concerned that this erratic weather is putting millions of Indians at risk, particularly in urban areas where poor drainage and sanitation aggravate the problem.

<h4>Why Untimely Rainfall Is a Health Hazard</h4>

Unseasonal rains lead to prolonged humidity and stagnant water, two ideal conditions for the breeding of disease-carrying mosquitoes and the spread of bacteria and viruses. Overflowing drains, waterlogged streets, and contaminated water supplies become hotspots for infection. With climate change making such weather more frequent, India’s already burdened healthcare system faces further pressure during the monsoon and beyond.

<h4>Here Is a List of 10 Most Common <span rel="noindex">Monsoon Diseases</span>:</h4>

Spread by the Aedes mosquito (often called the tiger mosquito), dengue is the most widespread monsoon disease. To prevent bites, apply mosquito repellent gel or lotion regularly.

<ul><li>High fever</li><li>Swollen lymph nodes</li><li>Skin rashes</li><li>Headache</li><li>Low platelet count</li><li>Hypersensitivity</li></ul>

Caused by mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water, often in overhead tanks, coolers, or unused containers.

<ul><li>Intense joint pain</li><li>High fever</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Chills</li></ul>

Another mosquito-borne illness that spikes during monsoon due to waterlogging.

<ul><li>Recurring high fever</li><li>Chills and sweating</li><li>Body ache</li><li>Severe anemia</li></ul>

Caused by consuming contaminated food or water, particularly where sanitation is poor.

<ul><li>Dehydration</li><li>Muscle cramps</li><li>Low blood pressure</li><li>Rapid heartbeat</li><li>Loss of skin elasticity</li></ul>

A highly contagious bacterial disease, often resulting from unhygienic food and water.

<ul><li>Prolonged high fever</li><li>Weakness</li><li>Abdominal pain</li><li>Vomiting</li></ul>

Common during monsoon, this illness spreads easily due to temperature fluctuations and humidity.

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Chills</li><li>Muscle and joint pain</li><li>Inflammation of the throat</li></ul>

Typically caused by unhygienic food or water, diarrhea can become dangerous if left untreated.

<ul><li>Watery stools</li><li>Abdominal cramps</li><li>Fever</li><li>Nausea</li></ul>

Fluctuating weather often leads to cold and flu symptoms, which can spread quickly.

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Muscle ache</li><li>Headache</li><li>Nasal congestion</li><li>Persistent cough</li></ul>

Transmitted from animals to humans, this bacterial infection becomes common in waterlogged areas.

<ul><li>High fever</li><li>Headache</li><li>Red eyes</li><li>Abdominal pain</li><li>Rashes</li></ul>

Caused by the consumption of unhygienic food, leading to infections like gastroenteritis.

<ul><li>Nausea and vomiting</li><li>Abdominal cramps</li><li>Diarrhea</li><li>Low-grade fever</li></ul>

As India grapples with climate change-induced weather patterns, it is essential to stay prepared. Avoid street food, drink only boiled or filtered water, and use mosquito repellents. Basic hygiene practices like washing hands regularly and ensuring proper sanitation can go a long way in protecting yourself and your family during this unpredictable season.

seasonal health

monsoon

untimely monsoon

untimely rainfall

infectious diseases

diseases

monsoon diseases

India is no stranger to the monsoon, but in recent times, untimely rainfall, during the summers has become a recurring and worrying pattern. Sudden downpours and extended wet spells, often hitting before or after the traditional monsoon season, have created favorable conditions for a surge in seasonal diseases. Public health experts are increasingly concerned that this erratic weather is putting millions of Indians at risk, particularly in urban areas where poor drainage and sanitation aggravate the problem.Why Untimely Rainfall Is a Health HazardUnseasonal rains lead to prolonged humidity and stagnant water, two ideal conditions for the breeding of disease-carrying mosquitoes and the spread of bacteria and viruses. Overflowing drains, waterlogged streets, and contaminated water supplies become hotspots for infection. With climate change making such weather more frequent, India’s already burdened healthcare system faces further pressure during the monsoon and beyond.Here Is a List of 10 Most Common Monsoon Diseases:DengueSpread by the Aedes mosquito (often called the tiger mosquito), dengue is the most widespread monsoon disease. To prevent bites, apply mosquito repellent gel or lotion regularly.Symptoms:High feverSwollen lymph nodesSkin rashesHeadacheLow platelet countHypersensitivityChikungunyaCaused by mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water, often in overhead tanks, coolers, or unused containers.Symptoms:Intense joint painHigh feverFatigueChillsMalariaAnother mosquito-borne illness that spikes during monsoon due to waterlogging.Symptoms:Recurring high feverChills and sweatingBody acheSevere anemiaCholeraCaused by consuming contaminated food or water, particularly where sanitation is poor.Symptoms:DehydrationMuscle crampsLow blood pressureRapid heartbeatLoss of skin elasticityTyphoidA highly contagious bacterial disease, often resulting from unhygienic food and water.Symptoms:Prolonged high feverWeaknessAbdominal painVomitingViral FeverCommon during monsoon, this illness spreads easily due to temperature fluctuations and humidity.Symptoms:FeverFatigueChillsMuscle and joint painInflammation of the throatDiarrheaTypically caused by unhygienic food or water, diarrhea can become dangerous if left untreated.Symptoms:Watery stoolsAbdominal crampsFeverNauseaInfluenzaFluctuating weather often leads to cold and flu symptoms, which can spread quickly.Symptoms:FeverMuscle acheHeadacheNasal congestionPersistent coughLeptospirosisTransmitted from animals to humans, this bacterial infection becomes common in waterlogged areas.Symptoms:High feverHeadacheRed eyesAbdominal painRashesStomach InfectionsCaused by the consumption of unhygienic food, leading to infections like gastroenteritis.Symptoms:Nausea and vomitingAbdominal crampsDiarrheaLow-grade feverStaying Safe During the MonsoonAs India grapples with climate change-induced weather patterns, it is essential to stay prepared. Avoid street food, drink only boiled or filtered water, and use mosquito repellents. Basic hygiene practices like washing hands regularly and ensuring proper sanitation can go a long way in protecting yourself and your family during this unpredictable season.

You Can Reduce Dementia Risk By Walking Only These Number Of Steps

Chronic Loneliness May Trigger Early Cognitive Decline In Young Adults

chronic loneliness may trigger early cognitive decline in young adults

World No-Tobacco Day: Quitting Smoking Can Significantly Boost 'Good' Cholesterol And Heart Health

quitting smoking can significantly boost 'good' cholesterol and heart health

Many of us aim for 10,000 steps a day, but new research suggests you might not need to walk quite that much to help lower your risk of <span>dementia</span>. A study using wearable trackers found that even fewer steps can make a real difference. Experts have shared that taking 9,800 steps a day can reduce your dementia risk. What's even better is that you get half of that benefit by just taking about 3,800 steps, or around 4,000. This is great news, as it's a more achievable goal for many people looking to boost their brain health.

It's not just about how many steps you take; how you walk also matters. The study on <span>walking and dementia</span> risk showed that taking purposeful steps and walking with more intensity, like a brisk walking pace, were linked to a lower risk of dementia. So, a faster walk is more helpful than a slower walk. Experts also highlighted the benefits of walking in groups, especially for older adults. Walking with others can build social connections, improve your mood, and fight off feelings of loneliness, all of which are important for your overall well-being. 

<h2>How Exercise Impact Dementia Risk?</h2>

Not being active enough is a big risk factor for dementia, studies have consistently shown that regular exercise for middle-aged and older adults can improve thinking and memory and lower the chances of getting dementia. The charity suggests getting about 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, which is any activity that gets your heart rate up. This can include everyday things like brisk walking, cleaning, or gardening, making it easy to fit into your daily life. 

<h2>Can More Physical Activity Prevent Dementia?</h2>

The NHS also strongly supports the idea that being physically active helps prevent dementia. They explain that not exercising enough can increase your risk of heart disease, becoming overweight, and developing type 2 diabetes – all factors that can raise your dementia risk. Older adults who don't exercise are also more likely to have problems with their memory or thinking. 

The NHS suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, or dancing. They also recommend strengthening exercises twice a week, like gardening or yoga, and encourage you to move regularly throughout the day, even by taking the stairs or standing during phone calls. 

Dementia

Reduce Dementia Risk

walking and dementia

Exercise and Dementia

Purposeful and Social Walking

Walking for mental health

Many of us aim for 10,000 steps a day, but new research suggests you might not need to walk quite that much to help lower your risk of dementia. A study using wearable trackers found that even fewer steps can make a real difference. Experts have shared that taking 9,800 steps a day can reduce your dementia risk. What's even better is that you get half of that benefit by just taking about 3,800 steps, or around 4,000. This is great news, as it's a more achievable goal for many people looking to boost their brain health.It's not just about how many steps you take; how you walk also matters. The study on walking and dementia risk showed that taking purposeful steps and walking with more intensity, like a brisk walking pace, were linked to a lower risk of dementia. So, a faster walk is more helpful than a slower walk. Experts also highlighted the benefits of walking in groups, especially for older adults. Walking with others can build social connections, improve your mood, and fight off feelings of loneliness, all of which are important for your overall well-being. How Exercise Impact Dementia Risk?Not being active enough is a big risk factor for dementia, studies have consistently shown that regular exercise for middle-aged and older adults can improve thinking and memory and lower the chances of getting dementia. The charity suggests getting about 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, which is any activity that gets your heart rate up. This can include everyday things like brisk walking, cleaning, or gardening, making it easy to fit into your daily life. Can More Physical Activity Prevent Dementia?The NHS also strongly supports the idea that being physically active helps prevent dementia. They explain that not exercising enough can increase your risk of heart disease, becoming overweight, and developing type 2 diabetes – all factors that can raise your dementia risk. Older adults who don't exercise are also more likely to have problems with their memory or thinking. The NHS suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, or dancing. They also recommend strengthening exercises twice a week, like gardening or yoga, and encourage you to move regularly throughout the day, even by taking the stairs or standing during phone calls. 

reduce dementia risk by walking these number of steps

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

What Are Empathy Fatigue And Compassion Fatigue?

Quick Stories

Could Sparkling Water Be Causing Stomach Pain And Digestive Distress?

Untimely Rainfall Leaves The Country Prone To These Infectious Diseases

You Can Reduce Dementia Risk By Walking Only These Number Of Steps

Health Conditions A-Z

Could Sparkling Water Be Causing Stomach Pain And Digestive Distress?

Untimely Rainfall Leaves The Country Prone To These Infectious Diseases

This 'Sweet and Sour' Fruit Juice Can Help Ease Sore Throat While Reducing Your Cancer Risk