Walking Reduces Dementia Risk

Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia after Alzheimer's disease. Vascular dementia is caused by an impaired blood flow to the brain. Blockages that narrow the blood vessels supplying the brain or complete blockages that cause a stroke, may also lead to vascular dementia. People with conditions that damage blood vessels throughout the body -- such as high blood pressure or diabetes -- are also at increased risk

The study by Ravaglia G et al (1) builds on evidence that lifestyle habits are important in dementia risk. A number of studies have suggested that the same habits that are good for the heart -- such as a healthy diet and regular exercise -- may benefit the aging brain as well.

The recent research tracked the exercise habits of 749 men and women in Italy who were over age 65 and were in good health, with no indication of memory problems at the beginning of the study. After four years, they found that the most-frequent walkers had a 27 percent lower risk for developing vascular dementia than those people who walked the least.

What’s important about the study is that it again shows exercise doesn’t have to be excruciating to reap the benefits.

Walking or exercise in general may benefit mental functioning for a number of reasons, according to the researchers. Aside from improving blood from improving the blood flow to the brain, it may also stimulate the release of key brain chemicals, and enhance the development of new nerve cells or the connections among those cells

Ravaglia G et al note that although moderate exercise had no effect on Alzheimer's disease, the findings do not mean that exercise has no effect on the risk of Alzheimer's.

1. Ravaglia G, Forti P, Lucicesare A, Pisacane N, Rietti E, Bianchin M, Dalmonte E. Physical activity and dementia risk in the elderly: findings from a prospective Italian study. Neurology. 2008 May 6;70(19 Pt 2):1786-94. Epub 2007 Dec 19.