After decades of failed drug trials, scientists are turning their attention to lifestyle interventions, as they look for ways to battle dementia. In a recent Canadian study, researchers at the University of British Columbia, reviewed the data behind 150 research articles examining whether exercise could reduce the risk of dementia. They concluded that older adults who are physically active are significantly less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease compared to people who are inactive. What’s more, they found that people with Alzheimer’s who remained physically active were able to get around and function better than those who didn’t.
How much exercise is needed? The standard for those 65 and older – 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise a week. That’s just over 20 minutes a day of brisk walking or any exercise that ups your heart rate. Based on the evidence, the Ontario brain institute put together a physical activity toolkit of recommended exercises.
Read more on the study in Time Magazine.