Slower Walking at 45 Tied to Early Brain Decline: Study
As we age, our bodies undergo a range of changes that can impact our overall health and wellbeing. From wrinkles and grey hair to declining physical abilities, it’s a natural part of life. However, a new study has shed light on a surprising factor that may be linked to early brain decline and increased risk of disease: walking speed.
Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, have found that individuals who walk slowly at the age of 45 are more likely to exhibit signs of faster biological ageing, smaller brain volume, and lower cognitive scores. These traits are often linked to early childhood brain health, suggesting that our walking speed at a relatively young age could be an indicator of our brain health decades later.
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from over 3,000 adults aged 45-64. Participants underwent a range of tests, including a walk test, cognitive assessments, and MRI scans to measure brain volume. The results were striking: individuals who walked slower than 1.2 meters per second (m/s) at age 45 had a 15% higher risk of cognitive decline and a 12% higher risk of dementia compared to those who walked faster.
So, why is walking speed so important? The answer lies in the complex relationship between our brain health, physical function, and overall ageing process. As we age, our brain undergoes natural changes that can impact our physical abilities, including our gait speed. A slow walking speed can be a sign of underlying brain health issues, such as reduced blood flow or inflammation, which can increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
But what’s even more remarkable about this study is the connection to early childhood brain health. The researchers found that individuals who walked slowly at age 45 had smaller brain volume and lower cognitive scores, which are often linked to early childhood brain development. This suggests that our brain health in early childhood may have a lasting impact on our brain function and ageing process later in life.
So, what can we do to promote healthy brain ageing and maintain a healthy walking speed? Here are a few simple tips:
- Get moving: Regular exercise, including walking, can help improve brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
- Stay mentally active: Engage in mentally stimulating activities, such as puzzles, games, or learning a new skill, to keep your brain active and challenged.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact brain health, so find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises.
- Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can support brain health and overall wellbeing.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help your brain function at its best.
While the study’s findings are concerning, there is hope. By incorporating these simple habits into our daily routine, we may be able to promote healthy brain ageing and maintain a healthy walking speed. So, the next time you’re walking down the street, take a moment to notice your stride – it may hold more significance than you think!
Source: https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/why-your-walking-speed-at-45-may-say-a-lot-about-your-health
