Neurologist Links Fast Walking to Improved Brain Health
A study from Albert Einstein College of Medicine suggests that maintaining a fast walking pace is associated with better cognitive resilience in older adults.
Research from Albert Einstein College of Medicine has identified a strong link between walking speed and cognitive health. The study, published in the journal Neurology, found that individuals in their 80s who maintain a significantly faster walking pace, termed "super movers," are more likely to remain mentally sharp compared to their slower-moving peers.
The research analyzed data from nearly 4,000 older adults participating in the long-term aging study called LonGenity. Participants underwent a timed walking test. The fastest nine percent, classified as super movers, were found to be approximately 50 percent less likely to experience cognitive decline.
Notably, even super movers with brain pathologies associated with dementia displayed better cognitive function than their slower-moving counterparts. This suggests that faster walkers may possess more resilient mechanisms that support brain function despite underlying disease.
Researchers believe the connection between walking speed and brain health likely begins earlier, possibly in midlife, even though the study focused on older participants. The findings highlight the potential benefits of brisk walking for long-term cognitive well-being.