Physical activity leads to slower cognitive decline - Alzheimer's Society comment

Dr James Pickett, Head of Research at Alzheimer’s Society, said:

'This study adds to previous research showing that people who are more active have a slower reduction in their memory and thinking skills as they get older, lose fewer brain cells, and have less amyloid, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, in their brain. 

'However, this can only show us that levels of physical activity are linked to brain measures – it doesn’t tell us that increasing activity would reduce your risk of getting dementia.

'There are ongoing trials to see if increasing activity can prevent cognitive decline and dementia, and we eagerly await these results – prevention is key, which is why we’re funding a variety of studies to better understand the different risk factors for dementia.

'But what this research does suggest to us is that staying active is no bad thing in keeping your mind sharp and your brain healthy, so although Wimbledon may be over, you can still dust off your racquet and head out onto court.'