Physical Activity Reduces Alzheimer’s Risk

The fear of developing Alzheimer‘s disease ranks second only to cancer according to a survey conducted by the Met Life Foundation in 2011. Since there is no cure for this condition-finding ways to live a life that promotes well-being is the best bet for avoiding or delaying the onset. While prevention is not a word we use about Alzheimer’s, there are ways to reduce the risk. Results of a new study published last week in the journal Neurology showed that physical activity does just that. This study, part of the Memory and Aging Project at Rush University Medical Center showed that activities as simple as washing dishes, cooking, cleaning, gardening — even playing cards reduced risk.

While physical activity has long been known to protect the brain, this study is unique in that it did not necessarily involve traditional, go to the gym type of exercise. "The implication of this study is really astounding," says physician Aron Buchman, the lead author. "Exercise is good, without a doubt, but this study is about more than exercise. Older people who might not be able to exercise can tailor activities that are right for them."

It has been awhile, I think, since I did a little chiding, encouraging, cajoling about the importance of exercise. Every time we turn around there is another study showing the benefit of moving our bodies. They are just made for that. This study reinforces the fact that we don’t need to have a gym membership or a fancy workout routine. We just need to M-O-V-E.

I occasionally run in to someone who tells me of an elaborate fitness routine they are starting. (People tell me these things because they think I am the Wellness Police-I am not). Maybe they order that set of DVDs offered by the buff guy or gal on a late night infomercial. Been there, done that. If you can keep up with those-more power to you-most of us can’t. We get caught up in the moment, make big plans and find ourselves right back at square one after a few weeks.

I walk-that’s it. 4-5 times per week I put on my walking shoes and go-rain or shine. Now, I am not perfect-I need to do better as a 50 something woman at strength exercises, but I do have the basics down. What helps me is that I have some things built in to my life that keep me moving. First, I commute to the city so I almost always walk the 25 minutes to and from the train station-done. When I am not going downtown-I have a large black lab at home who literally whines from the moment she awakens until someone takes her for a walk. And, I have a wonderful garden that calls out to me with its weeds and project plans-so all summer I spend every possible moment (never enough!) working out there.

I know city dwellers who ride their bikes to work, boat lovers who have boats to sail, and handy men who put up (or take down) walls. Find the thing in your life that will build in some ways to get moving-things you enjoy and that can become part of the rhythm of your life. After all, if you don’t enjoy it-why do it? Life is short.

Be well on purpose!

Carol