Replacing TV with reading may reduce dementia risk - study

Turns out it's not just about the amount of time spent sitting, it's also about what exactly a person is doing.

Details

The study found that "passive" activities, such as watching TV, were associated with a higher risk of dementia.

Conversely, "active" activities - reading, working on a computer, and problem solving - were associated with a lower risk.

The scientists analysed data from more than 20,000 people and followed them for 19 years.

The results showed that even with the same total sitting time, people who more often chose mentally active activities were less likely to experience dementia.

They also found that replacing some of the time spent watching TV with reading or other intellectual pursuits was associated with an additional reduction in risk.

However, the authors emphasise that the study shows a link rather than a direct cause.

Why it matters

Dementia remains one of the leading causes of poorer quality of life in older age.

The researchers recommend:

• replace watching TV with reading or other mental activities
• exercise the brain more, even at rest
• not only reduce sedentary time, but also change its "quality"
• combine mental activity with physical activity

Even small changes in habits can make a difference in the long run.

Background

Previously, it was thought that any prolonged sitting for long periods of time was equally unhealthy. However, new evidence shows that mental activity levels play a key role.

On average, adults spend about 9-10 hours a day sitting.

Source

The study is based on data from 20,811 people aged 35-64 who were followed for 19 years. It was published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine (2026).