Sitting Over 10 Hours Daily Ups Dementia Risk, Study Finds

Sitting over 10 Hours Per Day Increases Risk of Dementia

Sitting Over 10 Hours Daily Ups Dementia Risk, Study Finds

In today’s fast-paced world, the nature of our work often requires us to spend long hours seated at our desks. However, a recent study published in JAMA has revealed startling findings about the health risks associated with prolonged sitting, leading many to claim that “sitting is the new smoking”. This research, which examined the lifestyle habits of nearly 50,000 individuals, discovered that those who sit for more than 10 hours daily face a significantly increased risk of dementia within the following seven years.

The study found that the risk of dementia rises by 8% for those who sit for extended periods, and shockingly, it escalates to a staggering 63% for those who remain seated for 12 hours each day. What’s even more alarming is that these elevated risks persist, regardless of whether individuals engage in regular exercise outside their working hours.

David Raichlen, who spearheaded the study at the University of Southern California, commented, “Our modern lifestyle has normalized long hours of sitting โ€” be it at work, during TV viewing or while commuting. This study underscores the severe cognitive repercussions of such a lifestyle.”

While there is ample evidence linking sedentary behaviour to various metabolic disorders such as diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular disease, and even mortality, this study sheds new light on the cognitive risks. Dr Aditya N, a Clinical Psychologist from Bengaluru, explains, “In our clinical practice, we’ve observed that patients with sedentary behaviour, including cognitive inactivity, exhibit higher risks of developing dementia.”

Although a direct link between physical activity and dementia hasn’t been established yet, exercise is known to impact brain areas like the hippocampus that are crucial for memory formation. Beyond dementia, prolonged sitting has been associated with heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and premature death.

Renowned neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar from Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad advises that while a sedentary lifestyle involves extended sitting, those seated can still engage in mentally-stimulating activities like solving crosswords or sudoku. He emphasizes that the increased risk isnโ€™t solely about the length of time spent sitting, but the sedentary nature itself.

So, how many hours should we sit in a day? Dr Kumar recommends reducing sitting hours to six to seven hours if possible, and avoiding sitting for more than 30 minutes at a stretch. He suggests breaking the pattern by standing or taking a short walk every 30 minutes. He also recommends standing while taking breaks for tea or coffee.

This brings us to the question of how to choose the best sit stand desk. A good standing desk or an electric height adjustable standing desk can be a great solution to break the monotony of sitting and introduce some physical activity into your workday. The best sit stand desk is one that is ergonomic, comfortable, and suits your workspace. The health benefits of an electric stand up desk are numerous, including improved posture, increased calorie burn, and reduced risk of obesity and other health issues.

Moreover, there are other ways to stay active while working at a desk job. The 20-8-2 rule suggests that every 20 minutes, you should look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain, and every 30 minutes, stand for 8 minutes and move for 2 minutes. Regular movement, such as brief walks instead of sending emails and taking stretching breaks focusing on the neck, back, and limbs, can also be beneficial. Desk exercises like seated leg lifts and desk push-ups can further contribute to maintaining your health.

While post-work exercise may not fully counteract the risks of dementia, engaging in activities like dancing, jogging, or swimming can boost overall health. As Dr Kumar rightly points out, “Being active is the key.” Therefore, it’s time we reconsider our sedentary lifestyles and make a conscious effort to incorporate more movement into our daily routines.

author avatar
Guy Director
Higher Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Ergomotion Director since 2005.

Google Reviews

Ergomotion

Google Reviews

Fran Prem 29/05/25

Google
So happy with my new sit/stand desk. The price was very competitive and the quality is excellent. It's very unusual these days to have the level of human to human customer service Guy offered, from the time of ordering all the way to installation. Guy delivered my desk on time, put it together, set up my computer and tidied away the cables. Such a nice person, and a wonderful experience. Would highly recommend.

Pree P 28/03/25

Google
My brother in lawโ€™s glowing recommendation of the ergomotion sit- stand desk that he has been using for a few years now, and specially the service that Guy delivers, piqued my interest. And now I am convert!

From the moment I first interacted with Guy to the day my standing desk arrived, Iโ€™ve been nothing short of impressed. The booking process was incredibly smooth and hassle-free - Guy made everything so simple and straightforward. His customer service was top-notch, with clear communication and genuine helpfulness made the overall process even more amazing. I appreciate how patiently he answered my questions and explained the care instructions for the wooden top.

For the product itself! The standing desk is a game-changer - the attention to detail, premium material used, beautiful design, smooth adjustment all transformed my home office. The craftsmanship is top-notch. What really sets this experience apart is how much I genuinely enjoy using the desk every single day. Would highly recommend!! Thank you ๐Ÿ™

Wesley Dao 12/02/25

Google
Bought a standing desk after looking around at options. Solid wood and Linak frame so all around good quality. Assembly was simple with an electric screwdriver. Guy was very helpful and responsive.

Amanda O 28/01/25

Google
Bought a standing desk and I love it. Quality product at a great price. Amazing service from Guy, who helped explain the desk and accessories for efficient workspace setup. I highly recommend.

Rick Bruce 02/11/24

Google
After doing some due diligence and research into actuators I settled on this unit from ergomotion this unit is so solid and the operation is quite and flawless. The purchasing process and the shipping was absolutely fantastic!! I couldnโ€™t be happier with the product and the entire process, I would highly recommend this companyโ€ฆ. Rick Bruce

Shelley Jensen 07/09/24

Google
Guy (the owner) delivered the desk and set it up quickly. He then gave me a lesson on how to use it and how to get the most out of it. Arrived on time and was absolutely lovely to deal with throughout the whole process. Highly recommend.

clifford sneider 06/09/24

Google
Guy was fantastic and the desk is amazing

Jo Manning 08/08/24

Google
I bought an adjustable desk from Guy a couple of years ago, got great service and good price. Recently we had a tiny issue which could not be fixed over the phone. Guy was more than happy to come out and look at it 2 days later. All fixed! I really appreciated his patience with me and accommodating us so quickly. Great old fashioned service and piece of mind. I love it. I know where to get my second desk when needed. Thank you Guy. Jo Manning

Deborah Hunt 25/07/24

Google
ergomotion were fantastic to deal with. excellent customer service and a great product.

Andrew Pieterse 14/06/24

Google
Great service and really quick shipping. It is great to know that you are getting quality parts from a Scandinavian manufacturer with your standing desk purchase rather than the cheap knock off stuff you get from other major brands. Reasonably priced for the quality too!
Read more...