Researchers from the University of Melbourne, Australia, and colleagues studied 138 adults aged 50 and older with self-reported memory problems but who did not meet criteria for dementia. The average age was 69 years old.
One group did on average twenty minutes more physical activity a day, mainly vigorous walking, and it was this group that performed better on tests for memory and other cognitive functioning. The memory and brain function of those who did not do the walking program continued to deteriorate over the 18-month period.
The study, published in this week's issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded that physical activity reduces the rate of cognitive decline among older adults at risk for dementia.
Researchers also added that more research needs to be done and this will look at what sort of exercise is best and whether it can help those suffering from dementia. The new trial was funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council.
