BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- Aches and pains of old age can make some seniors reluctant to exercise, but new research has provided a new reason to get moving -- moderate exercise may help ward off mental decline.

Two new studies found that regular physical activity is linked to better memory among older adults.

In one report, researchers examined the frequency of exercise among more than 1,300 seniors.

They found those who participated in activities such as walking, yoga, weight lifting, or golf were 40 percent less likely to experience memory problems as they got older.

In a separate study, doctors enrolled 33 patients who already had mild mental impairments in an exercise program for six months. Participants either followed a vigorous aerobic exercise routine or performed stretching activities.

At the end, the women in the study improved their scores on a variety of memory tests and they had better blood sugar levels.

The men improved their blood work but had only minimal boosts in memory, which researchers say may be due to hormonal differences.