2025-11-04 14:34:32

Taking even a modest daily stroll could dramatically slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, scientists have found.

A long-term study by researchers at Mass General Brigham Hospital in Boston revealed that walking just 3,000 to 5,000 steps a day delayed Alzheimer’s-related brain changes and cognitive decline by around three years.

Those who walked 5,000 to 7,000 steps daily delayed symptoms by up to seven years.

Dr. Wai-Ying Yau, lead author of the 14-year study published in Nature Medicine, said: “We’re encouraging older people who are at risk of Alzheimer’s to make small, sustained changes to their activity levels to protect their brain and cognitive health.”

The team followed 296 adults aged 50 to 90, all cognitively healthy at the start. Participants’ activity levels were tracked with pedometers, while annual brain scans monitored amyloid plaques and tau tangles — toxic proteins linked to Alzheimer’s.

Those who walked regularly showed slower buildup of tau proteins and retained sharper memory and thinking skills. In contrast, sedentary participants experienced much faster brain decline.

Alzheimer’s, the most common cause of dementia, affects more than 500,000 people in the UK and 50 million worldwide. Scientists believe exercise boosts blood flow, reduces inflammation, and triggers hormones that protect brain cells.

Dr. Yau added: “We need randomised clinical trials to prove cause and effect, but it’s very encouraging that physical activity may help slow the rate of decline for those already showing early signs of Alzheimer’s.”

Dr. Julia Dudley, of Alzheimer’s Research UK, said the study shows even moderate movement could make a difference:

“Around 5,000 steps a day may slow the buildup of tau protein, one of the disease’s key drivers. Simple lifestyle changes can help keep our brains healthier for longer.”

Visit Bang Bizarre (main website)