The latest findings indicate that individuals aged 45 and older can still significantly mitigate their risk of dementia through physical exercise, following an extensive study published on November 19 in the journal JAMA Network Open, reports BritPanorama.
The research demonstrates that the highest levels of physical activity during midlife and late life correlate with a 41% and 45% reduction in dementia risk, respectively. Midlife is classified as ages 45 to 64, while late life ranges from 65 to 88. Despite the emphasis on earlier years, the emerging data supports engaging in physical activities later in life as well.
Dr. Sanjula Singh, a neurology instructor at Harvard Medical School, commented that the research marks a pivotal shift in understanding exercise’s role regarding brain health. “This study shifts the conversation from ‘exercise is good for the brain’ to ‘there may be key windows when exercise matters most for brain health,’” she stated.
With approximately 57 million people worldwide currently living with dementia, the implications of this study are substantial. Dr. Phillip Hwang, the study’s lead author, expressed a desire to ascertain whether the effect of physical activity on dementia risk is consistent across different stages of adulthood. Notably, even individuals with the APOE ε4 gene, a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s, exhibited a 66% lower risk of dementia linked to high physical activity levels.
Although the study provides valuable insights, it has limitations; it cannot specify exact exercise quantities. Hwang indicated that the measurement used was a composite of daily activities including sleep and sedentary behavior. He emphasized the necessity of identifying new ways to be active. Comparisons with prior research also affirm these findings: a 2022 study suggested a mere 3,800 steps daily could lower dementia risk by 25%, indicating greater benefits with increased activity.
Experts underscore the broader health advantages of physical activity that transcend dementia prevention. Hwang noted that exercise benefits other health conditions connected to cognitive function, including cardiovascular health and stress reduction.
The World Health Organization recommends that adults engage in at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity. Activities like brisk walking or strength training are particularly encouraged.
Despite the benefits tied to physical activity, experts like Dr. Raphael Wald advise those new to exercise to start gradually to avoid injuries. Building consistent, moderate habits into daily routines can also substantially improve long-term health outcomes.
The findings from this research point toward a critical opportunity for adults, particularly during midlife and late life, to engage in increased levels of physical activity to enhance cognitive longevity. The dialogue around exercise’s role in brain health continues to evolve, reinforcing that it is never too late to start prioritizing one’s health.
As the understanding of the interplay between physical activity and brain health develops, the need for ongoing research and public health initiatives to guide individuals in maintaining an active lifestyle becomes increasingly apparent.
