Daily Walking May Delay Alzheimer’s Symptoms, Study Finds
People who are at heightened risk of Alzheimer’s disease may be able to slow their cognitive decline by increasing the number of steps they take each day, according to a new observational study published this week. The research tracked a cohort of adults with early, presymptomatic signs of the disease and found a measurable association between higher daily step counts and a modest delay in the onset of more pronounced cognitive symptoms.
Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative condition, currently affects millions worldwide and has no cure. While genetics, age, and lifestyle factors all contribute to risk, previous investigations have suggested that regular physical activity can support brain health by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting the growth of new neural connections. The latest study adds to this body of evidence by quantifying the potential benefit of a simple, everyday activity—walking.
Researchers monitored participants over a period of three years, using wearable devices to record average daily steps. After adjusting for age, education, baseline cognition, and other health variables, they observed that individuals who averaged at least 7,000 steps per day experienced a slower rate of decline on standard memory and executive‑function tests compared with those who walked fewer than 4,000 steps. The lead investigator noted that “the data indicate a dose‑response relationship, where more movement corresponds with better preservation of cognitive abilities,” while emphasizing that the findings do not prove causation.
Experts not involved in the study cautioned that walking should be viewed as one component of a broader preventive strategy that includes a balanced diet, mental stimulation, and regular medical check‑ups. Public‑health officials highlighted the accessibility of walking as an intervention that can be adopted across diverse populations. The authors recommend that clinicians consider discussing incremental step‑increase goals with patients at risk for Alzheimer’s, while awaiting further randomized trials to confirm the observed benefits. If substantiated, such low‑cost lifestyle modifications could become a valuable tool in delaying the clinical progression of the disease.
