A new study published in Nature Medicine has found that walking just 3,000 to 7,500 steps per day could potentially delay Alzheimer’s cognitive decline by up to seven years for individuals at risk of the disease. Researchers from Mass General Brigham monitored nearly 300 older adults aged 50 to 90, observing a correlation between daily step counts and slower progression of amyloid-beta and tau proteins in the brain, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. The study emphasizes that physical activity may impact the disease’s progression, although it cannot conclusively establish a causative relationship.
The research, funded in part by the National Institutes of Health, involved tracking participants’ daily steps and using brain scans to measure key proteins linked to Alzheimer’s. Over a nine-year period, participants who walked between 3,000 and 5,000 steps per day experienced a delayed decline in cognitive function by about three years compared to their less active counterparts. Those who averaged between 5,000 and 7,500 steps saw a more significant benefit, with cognitive decline delayed by up to seven years. However, the study is observational, meaning it only found associations rather than proving causation.
Experts note that while the study highlights the importance of physical activity in maintaining cognitive health, other lifestyle factors such as diet and social engagement may also play a role. Wai-Ying Wendy Yau, a cognitive neurologist at Mass General Brigham and the study’s first author, emphasized that even small increases in daily activity can lead to long-term health benefits. Courtney Kloske, director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, praised the study’s well-conducted nature and its potential to inform future research on lifestyle interventions for Alzheimer’s prevention. She also noted that the study does not yet determine the exact contribution of individual factors, such as exercise, nutrition, or social interaction, in delaying cognitive decline.
The findings underscore the need for public health efforts to promote physical activity among older adults, particularly those at risk of Alzheimer’s. The National Institute on Aging recommends implementing walking regimens safely, encouraging individuals to take incremental steps in increasing their physical activity. While the study does not provide a definitive answer on the mechanisms by which walking might slow Alzheimer’s progression, it offers hope that lifestyle changes can play a critical role in cognitive health. As more research emerges, understanding the complex interplay between physical activity and brain health may lead to more targeted preventative strategies in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.