When it comes to practicing lifestyle strategies to build brain health, walking is a great game plan. UW–Madison Alzheimer’s disease researchers have found walking regularly is an effective way to reduce the risk of dementia. A recent study in the United Kingdom described the daily step count recommended for dementia prevention, advising between 3,800 to 9,800 steps daily.
In response, Ozioma Okonkwo, PhD, and Beth Planalp, PhD, published an editorial arguing that the pace and intensity of walking are more valuable than the distance. Additionally, the researchers noted that walking 112 steps a minute is less intimidating and more attainable for people, especially if they have been physically inactive or underactive.
“Is 112 the New 10 000?—Step Count and Dementia Risk in the UK Biobank” by Okonkwo and Planalp appeared in JAMA Neurology on September 6, 2022.
“Walk this number of steps each day to cut your risk of dementia” appeared on CNN.com on September 6, 2022.
More resources
Okonkwo discussed the impacts of physical exercise on brain health on the first episode of the Dementia Matters podcast.
Watch Okonkwo describe brain health and exercise with Wisconsin’s First Lady Kathy Evers.
Read more about the Okonkwo lab and their work in an investigative series from the Wisconsin State Journal.
