Alzheimer’s disease is believed to be a progressive dementia caused by neurofibril plaque formation resulting in death within five years of diagnosis. Vascular dementia is far more common and its incidence parallels cardiovascular disease rates. In fact, one study showed 50% of people over 80 had measurable dementia causing some incapacitation. While Alzheimer’s has a life of its own, vascular dementia can be impacted, at least somewhat.

A large-scale study documented people over 50 who exercised 45 minutes daily lowered dementia in their 70′s by 15%. More strikingly, a recent study showed people over 65 who walked 10 miles a week, or 1 and 1/2 miles daily, had 1/2 the dementia of those who did not. A new study simply observes seniors walking and can acutely predict who will get dementia and how soon! This is based on gait as it relates to brain structures and overall fitness. It is also known that vascular health is directly related to conditioning.

Aerobic exercise improves blood flow to the brain, heart and genitals and improves and protects their functioning. (Yes, you can stay sexually active longer!). Cognitive and heart functioning are improved. New data now indicates you can stave of the onset of certain dementias by daily aerobic exercise. 45 minutes to one hour is required, but start slow, and walking or low impact water aerobics works well. If you happen to be fortunate to live a long time, be sure to take you brain with you!