A study led by Stony Brook Medicine in New York found that older adults who walk at a faster pace are about half as likely to develop cognitive impairment as their peers. The study, which evaluated the cognitive function of 4,000 adults 80 and over, found that those who walked at a faster pace had better cognitive function despite having similar dementia-related brain changes as their peers.
Findings and Implications
The study’s findings suggest that preserving mobility may be an important marker of healthy brain aging and resilience. The researchers noted that understanding the resilience factors that help preserve brain function could lead to new strategies for promoting healthy brain aging.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Joe Verghese, emphasized the importance of physical activity for healthy aging, stating that staying physically active remains one of the most effective, evidence-based ways to support healthy aging. Verghese recommended that seniors focus on maintaining mobility through regular physical activity, strength training, balance exercises, and good cardiovascular health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking. This can be achieved by walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week, or about 20 to 25 minutes most days.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
