Physical activity could reduce Alzheimer’s risk, study finds [news]

Being physically active may help reduce one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, even in older patients, according to a study published online April 18 in Neurology. The study is one of the first to look at a range of physical activities, instead of strictly focusing on exercise. “There is accumulating evidence to suggest that a whole range of late-life activity is important in maintaining cognitive ability,” said Aron S. Buchman, MD, associate professor of neurological sciences at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. The study is among the latest of several to suggest a link between mental and physical activity and long-term cognitive health.