Alzheimer’s disease affects over 6 million Americans, and recent research from Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the University of Pittsburgh sheds light on how lifestyle habits can impact the risk of developing this debilitating condition.
In a study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, researchers found a significant association between increased sedentary behavior in aging adults and worse cognition, as well as brain shrinkage in areas linked to Alzheimer’s disease risk. The study, led by Dr. Marissa Gogniat of the University of Pittsburgh and co-authored by Dr. Angela Jefferson of Vanderbilt University Medical Center, involved 404 adults aged 50 and older who wore activity-tracking watches for a week. Their sedentary time was then correlated with cognitive performance and brain scans taken over a seven-year period.
The findings revealed that participants who spent more time sedentary were more likely to experience cognitive decline and neurodegenerative changes, regardless of their level of physical activity. This effect was particularly pronounced in individuals with the APOE-e4 allele, a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that reducing sedentary time could be especially crucial for older adults at increased genetic risk.
Dr. Gogniat emphasized the importance of reducing sedentary time, stating that simply exercising daily is not enough to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Jefferson highlighted the significance of studying lifestyle choices on brain health as we age, emphasizing the need to take breaks from sitting and increase active time throughout the day.
The researchers concluded that reducing sedentary time could be a promising strategy for preventing neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in older adults, especially those at increased genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease. This study underscores the importance of incorporating movement into daily routines to support brain health as we age.
For more information, the study titled “Increased sedentary behavior is associated with neurodegeneration and worse cognition in older adults over a 7‐year period despite high levels of physical activity” can be found in Alzheimer’s & Dementia. This research was conducted by Marissa A. Gogniat et al and provides valuable insights into the link between sedentary behavior and Alzheimer’s risk.
This article was provided by Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and readers can find more information on their website. The study’s citation is also available for reference, highlighting the importance of citing the source when using this information for research or educational purposes.
