Daily Walking Could Delay Alzheimer’s for Years, Study Finds

A groundbreaking 14-year study from Mass General Brigham Hospital in Boston suggests that even modest daily exercise—like walking 3,000 to 7,000 steps—may significantly slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in older adults at risk.

Researchers followed nearly 300 people between the ages of 50 and 90 who were cognitively healthy at the start of the study.

Participants who averaged between 3,000 and 5,000 steps a day delayed cognitive decline by about three years, while those who walked between 5,000 and 7,000 steps saw delays of up to seven years.

The study also found that individuals who walked more had slower accumulation of tau proteins and amyloid plaques—two key biological drivers of Alzheimer’s.

Though researchers caution that physical activity may not directly prevent the disease, the findings indicate that movement supports brain function by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and stimulating hormone and growth factor production.

Experts say even small, consistent increases in physical activity could help older adults protect their cognitive health and quality of life.