Exercise may prevent Alzheimer's disease

While the benefits of exercise for the brain have been well-documented, new evidence suggests that physical activity may be even more important for those who are genetically at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease, according to PhysOrg.com.


Researchers studied four different groups of individuals aged 65 to 85, depending on their risk factor of Alzheimer's and how active their lifestyles were. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, they then conducted an assessment of seniors who were playing a name discrimination test.


"When a person thinks about people - for example, Frank Sinatra or Lady Gaga - that involves several lobes of the brain," said professor J.

Carson Smith, who was involved with the study.


The most interesting part of the study was the conclusion that those who exercised and were at high-risk for Alzheimer's actually displayed more brain activity than individuals who exercised but weren't at risk.


Smith suggested that studies like this could eventually help in the understanding of Alzheimer's care.


Experts state that exercise can also help prevent falls in seniors because it improves strength and balance. This may be vital information for those living independently, as one in three seniors fall each year, according to the CDC.


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