🌿 Exercise in Middle Age Reduces Risk of Dementia Later in Life
A new study suggests that regular physical activity in midlife not only helps maintain weight and heart health but also reduces the risk of developing dementia in old age—particularly benefiting those at higher genetic risk.
Researchers at Karolinska Institute in Sweden found that middle-aged individuals who exercised at least twice weekly had nearly 60% lower risk of dementia compared to those who remained sedentary. The researchers emphasized this study was the first to demonstrate a long-term relationship between physical activity and reduced dementia risk in later life.
The researchers added that physical activity appears to have even stronger effects on individuals genetically susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease due to the APOE4 gene variant, one of the most significant risk factors for Alzheimer’s and early-onset dementia. Alzheimer’s disease can lead to early-onset dementia.
In this study, researchers examined the mental health of approximately 1,500 individuals aged 65 to 79. Their leisure activities were monitored every five years from 1972 to 1987. In 1998, researchers re-examined the data and found that those who engaged in active lifestyles had a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The study also revealed that individuals who were highly active in midlife and participated in at least two bouts of recreational exercise per week had much lower risks of dementia—especially Alzheimer’s disease—with walking and cycling being the most common forms of exercise in the study.
Currently, about 12 million people worldwide suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. To date, no cure exists for this condition, which causes progressive memory and cognitive decline. However, medication can help delay early-stage progression.