Midlife Exercise Halves Dementia Risk

New research suggests that maintaining a regular exercise routine starting in midlife can significantly decrease the likelihood of developing dementia. The study found that physical activity during middle age and later life is strongly linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Specifically, individuals who were most physically active in their mid-forties and fifties experienced a nearly 41% lower risk of dementia compared to their less active counterparts.

Interestingly, the benefits of exercise in preventing dementia appear to be concentrated in midlife and late life. The same study observed no significant association between physical activity levels in early adulthood and the subsequent risk of developing dementia. This finding underscores the importance of incorporating exercise into one's routine during the middle stages of life for long-term brain health.

The findings, which specifically noted similar risk reductions for Alzheimer's disease, highlight the potential for timely public health interventions. While the study had limitations, including a predominantly white participant pool and self-reported activity data, experts emphasize the broader health benefits of regular physical activity, aligning with NHS recommendations for weekly exercise.