Regular physical activity reduces risk of dementia in older people

Regular physical activity had this beneficial effect in people regardless of age, education, changes in the brain's white matter and even previous history of stroke or diabetes.

The findings are based on a multinational European study that included annual full cognitive assessments of 639 people in their 60s and 70s for three years. Almost 64 per cent said they were active at least 30 minutes a day three times a week. The activity included gym classes, walking and biking.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'You don't have to be an Olympic athlete to reap the benefits of exercise. As this research shows, making sure we are fitting regular bursts of activity into our daily lives can make a real difference to the brain as well as the heart.

Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and not smoking as well as getting your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly can make an important contribution to reducing your risk of developing dementia.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Research reference: 'Physical Activity Prevents Progression for Cognitive Impairment and Vascular Dementia' by Ana Verdelho et al in Stroke journal

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten 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 0300 222 1122 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
  

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