It's believed older adults who regularly do housework have a better memory and attention span.
Researchers in Singapore found people who perform the more physically demanding jobs, such as window cleaning and vacuuming, had higher balance scores.
They say doing chores alongside exercise could result in healthier ageing.
The new study, published in the journal BMJ Open, examined data on almost 500 pensioners and younger adults aged between 21 and 90.
All were living independently and able to carry out routine day-to-day tasks.
Researchers examined walking speed and sit-to-stand speed from a chair – which is indicative of leg strength and falls risk – to assess the participants’ levels of physical activity.
Their mental agility was also assessed with tests designed to examine memory, language and attention span.
Participants were quizzed about the intensity and frequency of household chores as well as other types of physical activity.
