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Super movers half as likely to develop cognitive decline, study finds
Fox News • • general
Key Points:
- A study by Stony Brook Medicine found that older adults aged 80 and over who walk at a much faster pace, termed "super movers," have about half the risk of cognitive decline compared to peers with typical gait speed.
- Super movers maintain cognitive function despite having similar dementia-related brain changes as slower walkers, suggesting they may have resilience mechanisms that protect brain health.
- The study emphasizes that walking speed is a marker of overall health and not a treatment, and that regular physical activity, strength training, and cardiovascular health are crucial for healthy brain aging.
- Researchers caution that the study is observational and that factors like cardiovascular health, fitness, and genetics also influence walking speed and cognitive outcomes.
- Public health guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly, such as brisk walking, as an effective way to support healthy aging and brain function.
