Modest walking may slow Alzheimer’s in at-risk seniors
Walking 3,000-5,000 steps daily may delay cognitive decline in at-risk older adults by up to 7 years.
Why it matters
- Physical activity may slow Alzheimer’s progression in at-risk older adults.
- Lifestyle changes could impact cognitive health significantly.
By the numbers
- 3,000-5,000 steps/day delayed cognitive decline by 3 years.
- 5,000-7,500 steps/day delayed it by 7 years.
- Study involved 296 participants aged 50-90.
The big picture
- Lifestyle factors may impact early stages of Alzheimer's.
- Encourages further research into exercise interventions.
What they're saying
- Experts note that every step counts and small increases in activity can build over time.
- Some commenters question the balance between intellectual work and physical activity.
Caveats
- Observational study; does not prove causation.
- Benefits were significant only in those with high amyloid-beta levels.
What’s next
- Researchers plan to study which aspects of physical activity are most important.
- Further investigation into biological mechanisms linking activity, tau buildup, and cognitive health.