Regular Exercise Linked to Reduced Dementia Risk, Research Shows

Over 7 million individuals in the United States are currently diagnosed with some form of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, as reported by the Alzheimer’s Association in a 2025 study. With no known cure for dementia, understanding how to mitigate its risk is becoming increasingly critical, particularly as the U.S. population ages rapidly.

Dementia refers to a group of disorders characterised by memory loss and cognitive decline that significantly impacts day-to-day activities, with Alzheimer’s being the most prevalent form. Unlike normal age-related memory lapses, dementia manifests in severe memory impairment that can hinder basic tasks and recognition of familiar surroundings and people.

Recent research has highlighted several lifestyle factors that may decrease the likelihood of developing dementia, with regular exercise being a prominent one. Dr. David Reuben, director of the Geriatrics Medicine and Gerontology programme at the University of California, Los Angeles, emphasised the protective role of exercise in relation to vascular dementia, which can occur due to strokes from arterial plaque buildup.

"Exercise may alter the vascular component that contributes to dementia," Dr. Reuben stated. "We know that exercise helps prevent heart disease linked to plaque buildup, and a significant portion of the dementia population suffers from vascular dementia or mixed dementia, which includes both Alzheimer’s and vascular factors."

In addition to vascular concerns, chronic inflammation has been implicated in heightened dementia risk. Dr. Reuben noted that exercise has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers, potentially serving as an intervention to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

"Research indicates that even modest amounts of exercise, such as 20 to 30 minutes daily, can provide a protective benefit," he added. "Moreover, increased levels of physical activity correlate with greater protection against cognitive decline."

The impact of exercise on the formation of amyloid plaques—proteins associated with the onset of Alzheimer’s—is also under investigation, with researchers suggesting that the disease may begin manifesting long before symptoms appear.

Dr. Reuben is a proponent of maintaining an active lifestyle throughout one’s life. "Consistent exercise is beneficial at any stage, and particularly those in mid- to late-life can significantly reduce their risk of dementia," he asserted. A recent study published in November 2025 in the Journal of the American Medical Association Network found that engaging in physical activity later in life might disrupt the accumulation of harmful plaques and inflammation.

However, Dr. Reuben cautioned that individuals starting or resuming exercise in mid-life or later should do so gradually to avoid injury. "Don’t attempt to replicate your past exercise levels immediately. It’s best to build up your routine progressively."

While exercise plays a vital role, it is one of various lifestyle modifications that can help lower dementia risk. A separate study published earlier this year in the Journal of the American Medical Association Network revealed that older adults at risk of cognitive decline who adhered to a structured regimen encompassing healthy eating, physical and cognitive activities, and social engagement experienced greater positive outcomes over two years compared to those following a less structured approach.

There remains a considerable amount to learn regarding the relationship between exercise and dementia risk. Dr. Reuben pointed out, "Many observational studies compare those who exercise to those who do not, but other factors may also play a role—such as diet, social engagement, and educational background. We still need to determine whether exercise benefits all types of dementia or just certain forms. Nonetheless, it’s increasingly apparent that exercise will likely be integral to dementia prevention strategies."

The UCLA program provides comprehensive and coordinated care for individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.