Dementia is a progressive cognitive decline that mainly affects elderly people. It is a major public health concern that affects millions of people worldwide, with no known cure.

However, a recent study has shown that there is an active ‘drug’ that can reduce dementia progression by 55%. Keep reading to learn more about it.

What is the active ‘drug’?

The active ‘drug’ that can reduce dementia progression is physical activity. Several studies have shown that regular physical activity can improve cognitive function and reduce dementia risk.

In a recent study, researchers found that physical activity can also slow down the progression of dementia in people who already have the condition.

How does physical activity reduce dementia progression?

Physical activity has several mechanisms of action that can reduce dementia progression. Firstly, it improves blood flow to the brain, which enhances oxygen and nutrient supply to brain cells.

This, in turn, promotes the growth of new brain cells and reduces brain atrophy, which is a hallmark of dementia.

Secondly, physical activity reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which are major drivers of dementia pathology. Inflammation and oxidative stress can damage brain cells and impair cognitive function, leading to dementia.

Thirdly, physical activity stimulates the production of neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which promote the growth and survival of brain cells.

BDNF has been shown to be reduced in people with dementia, and restoring its levels can improve cognitive function.

What type of physical activity is best for reducing dementia progression?

Several types of physical activity have been studied for their effects on dementia, including aerobic exercise, resistance training, and balance and coordination exercises.

However, aerobic exercise has been shown to have the greatest effect on reducing dementia progression.

Aerobic exercise entails rhythmic, repetitive movements that increase heart rate and breathing, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming or dancing.

It should be performed at a moderate intensity, such as 150 minutes per week, as recommended by the World Health Organization.

Who can benefit from physical activity?

Physical activity can benefit people of all ages and fitness levels, including those with dementia. In fact, it is never too late to start being physically active, as long as you do it safely and gradually.

However, people with dementia may require some modifications to their exercise program, such as shorter duration, lower intensity, and simpler movements.

How to start a physical activity program?

If you want to start a physical activity program to reduce dementia progression, here are some tips:.

Consult your doctor to assess your fitness level and potential risks
Choose a type of physical activity that you enjoy and that suits your abilities
Set realistic and specific goals, such as walking for 30 minutes per day, three times a week
Start gradually and build up the intensity and duration over time
Find a partner or a group to exercise with, for motivation and socialization
Make it a habit and integrate it into your daily routine, such as walking to the grocery store instead of driving
Track your progress and celebrate your achievements, such as increasing your walking distance or reducing your blood pressure

Conclusion

Dementia is a devastating condition that affects millions of people worldwide, but there is hope.

Regular physical activity can reduce dementia progression by 55%, by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and stimulating neurotrophic factors in the brain. Aerobic exercise is the most effective type of physical activity for reducing dementia progression, and people of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from it.

By starting a physical activity program, you can not only improve your cognitive function but also enhance your overall health and wellbeing.