Boost Activity, Cut Dementia Risk by 45%

New research suggests that boosting physical activity during midlife and later years can substantially lower the chances of developing dementia. A study analyzing data from over 4,300 individuals revealed that higher levels of physical activity in midlife were associated with a 40% reduced risk of all-cause dementia over approximately 26 years. This benefit was particularly noted in those without the APOE4 gene variant linked to Alzheimer's.

Further findings indicated that individuals with higher activity levels in late life experienced a 36% to 45% lower dementia risk over about 15 years. This late-life benefit extended to both APOE4 carriers and non-carriers. Researchers propose that physical activity enhances brain structure and function, reduces inflammation, and improves vascular health, potentially delaying cognitive impairment.

While the study highlights the strong link between exercise and reduced dementia risk, its authors noted limitations, including self-reported activity levels and a lack of association with early adulthood activity. Despite these, experts agree that exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining brain health by mitigating risks such as hypertension and diabetes.