One of the major health concerns around the world is Alzheimer’s, a type of dementia that affects a person’s memory, thinking, and behavior.

Millions of people worldwide suffer from this disease, which is projected to increase as the global population ages. Researchers have identified many risk factors that can lead to Alzheimer’s, including genetics and lifestyle choices.

However, studies suggest that walking, a low-impact physical activity, can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and improve cognitive function.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that affects the brain’s ability to function correctly. The disease damages brain cells and impairs cognitive function, causing memory loss, disorientation, and mood swings.

People with Alzheimer’s disease need continuous care because the disease worsens over time and affects their ability to perform daily activities.

How is Alzheimer’s Diagnosed?

There is no single test to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Doctors usually diagnose it based on a comprehensive evaluation that includes medical history, physical exams, imaging tests, and lab tests.

Doctors look for signs of memory impairment, language problems, and personality changes. Medical exams also involve testing cognitive function and ruling out other possible causes of the symptoms.

What Causes Alzheimer’s?

Researchers have identified many factors that increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The most well-known is age, which is a significant risk factor for developing the disease.

Other factors include genetics, lifestyle choices such as smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels. There is also ongoing research on the link between head injuries and Alzheimer’s disease.

How Can Walking Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer’s?

Regular exercise has many health benefits for people of all ages, but it’s especially beneficial for older adults.

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease showed that walking five miles a week can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by as much as 50 percent. Furthermore, another study conducted by the Chicago Rush Memory and Aging Project found that walking just one mile a day can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 48 percent.

The brain is like any other organ in that it needs adequate blood flow to function correctly. When people walk regularly, they boost their cardiovascular system, which improves blood flow throughout the body, including the brain.

Exercise also helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which are two significant risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, walking increases the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and development of new brain cells.

How Can Walking Improve Cognitive Function?

Walking regularly can improve cognitive function, which includes memory recall, attention span, and decision-making skills.

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease concluded that intense exercise has a protective effect on brain function and can delay the onset of cognitive decline of Alzheimer’s patients.

Walking also helps maintain a healthy weight, which is another contributing factor to cognitive health. Obesity can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to damage in the brain.

How Much Walking is Recommended?

According to the American Heart Association, people should aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week or 30 minutes a day, five times a week.

Walking is one of the best low-impact ways to get exercise as it requires no equipment, and most people can do it wherever they are. Individuals can break walking sessions throughout the day into shorter periods of time, such as three ten-minute intervals.

Other Ways to Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer’s

While walking is an effective way to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, there are other things that individuals can do to protect their cognitive function, such as:.

Engage in mentally stimulating activities such as reading, puzzles, and learning new things
Eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats
Reduce stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing
Stay socially active by spending time with friends and loved ones, joining clubs, or volunteering

Conclusion

With the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease worldwide, it’s essential to take proactive measures to maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing the disease.

Walking five miles a day or even one mile a day is a low-impact and natural way to improve cardiovascular health and support brain function. By adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, a balanced diet, and mental stimulation, people can take control of their cognitive health and decrease their risk of Alzheimer’s disease.