It’s never too late to start.
With dementia cases expected to increase over the next 25 years, new research has found a way to significantly lower the risk of the degenerative disease.
All it takes is one habit that has proven benefits at any age, and especially if you’re in mid- to late-life.
Research from Boston University examined over 1,500 participants in the BU-led Framingham Heart Study, an eight–decade–old research initiative.
The study, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, found that a high level of physical activity was associated with a lower risk of dementia.
Those between the ages of 45 and 64 — or mid-life — saw a 45% decrease in the chances of dementia.
While the study didn’t specify exactly what types of exercises participants did or how vigorous the exercises were, it did show that being active was extremely beneficial compared to being sedentary.
Researchers were also unsure how many of the study participants had been working out regularly all their lives.
Regardless, the study still showed improvements in lowering the possibility of Alzheimer’s or other cognitive decline, even for those in later life, as those aged 65 to 88 also saw a 41% lower risk.
Physical activity has long been linked to improved cognitive health.
Walking just 3,800 steps per day lowered the risk of dementia by 25%, according to a 2022 study.
And another study found that biking, rather than driving or even using public transit, saw a 19% lower risk of dementia and 22% of Alzheimer’s.
Regular movement lets the heart pump more blood to the brain, along with vital oxygen and nutrients.
This can improve brain function and reduce inflammation, as well as reduce conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes that can affect the brain.
Another possibility is that exercise affects the plaque that kills brain cells.
“Physical activity may also directly impact neurodegenerative disease pathology,” said study lead and BU School of Public Health assistant professor of epidemiology Phillip Hwang.
However, hitting the gym or going for a walk aren’t the only ways to boost brain health.
Doctors also recommend eating a heart-healthy diet like the Mediterranean diet, regular socialization and doing activities that work your brain, such as puzzles or even dancing.
