Absence of effective treatments for dementia underscores the importance of strategies

The absence of effective treatments for dementia underscores the importance
of strategies, including maintaining a healthy lifestyle, to attenuate the
risk factors for dementia.
Studies have shown that higher physical activity levels and lower sedentary
behaviors could reduce the risk of dementia. However, such studies have
generally relied on self-reports with limited accuracy.
A recent study using accelerometers to accurately measure physical activity
levels showed that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and daily steps,
but not light physical activity and sitting, were associated with a lower
risk of cognitive decline in older women.
This study highlights the need for at least moderate-intensity physical
activity, including moderate-intensity daily steps, to reduce the risk of
mild cognitive impairment and dementia.
Dementia in women aged 63 and older. In addition, the study found that
moderate-to-vigorous intensity steps, but not light-intensity steps, were
associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline. This study helps to
clarify the intensity of physical activity needed to prevent or delay
cognitive decline