Physical activity can prevent grey matter shrinkage

As part of a large study, scientists at the University of Pittsburgh asked 299 adults, with an average age of 70, how far they walked each week. Nine years later they measured brain size and found people who walked between six and nine miles each week had greater grey matter volume than those who walked less. Volume was not maintained any better for those who walked more than nine miles. After 13 years, almost half of the people had developed some form of cognitive impairment. Maintained volume in certain parts of the brain was found to help reduce this risk.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This study provides further evidence that a healthy heart can lead to a healthy brain. One of the benefits of this research is that it eliminates the impact other socio-economic factors may play and focuses specifically on walking rather than exercise more generally.'

'Although a link has been found between lack of exercise and brain shrinkage, we need more research to find out why physical activity may affect the brain.The best way to reduce your risk is to take regular exercise, eat healthily, don't smoke and get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked.'

Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Research Reference: Physical activity predicts gray matter volume in late adulthood by Erickson et al, Neurology online, Wednesday 13 October 2010.

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk