Reducing the risk of dementia, step by step

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An active lifestyle with sufficient exercise not only keeps you physically fit but is also said to have a positive impact on mental performance. British researchers have discovered: Around 4,000 steps a day could help reduce the risk of dementia.

A group of researchers in England has investigated whether and to what extent daily step count acts as a protective factor against the development of dementia. They examined the link between the onset of dementia and the number of steps taken each day. The research findings suggest that there may be a link between daily step count or walking intensity and the onset of dementia. 

Eine Mindestanzahl von rund 3.800 Schritten pro Tag kann zu einer Verringerung des Demenzrisikos um 25 Prozent führen.

A 25 percent reduction in the risk of dementia

There is no minimum number of steps, the authors write. While about 9,800 steps per day appear to be optimal for reducing the risk of dementia, even a minimum of about 3,800 steps per day can lead to a 25 percent reduction in that risk. In addition, both targeted steps and the highest 30-minute step frequency can have a positive effect. At least around 4,000 steps a day could therefore contribute to a reduction in the prevalence of dementia in the general population. 

Based on their findings, the researchers recommend that the optimal daily step count and step intensity be included in the guidelines for dementia prevention.

Large-scale study

A total of 78,430 adults aged 40 to 79 participated in the British study between 2013 and 2015. The participants' daily step count was measured using an activity monitor suitable for study purposes – similar to a smartwatch. Participants wore this on their wrist 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

The researchers tracked different types of steps, such as „random steps“ (fewer than 40 steps per minute) and „purposeful steps“ (40 steps per minute or more). In addition, other personal and health-related data were collected. The researchers monitored the participants until October 2021 to see if they developed dementia following their participation in the study. During this period, 866 participants—just under one percent—developed dementia..

Hier geht’s zur Studie:

Association of Daily Step Count and Intensity With Incident Dementia in 78,430 Adults Living in the UK

Social integration can reduce the risk of dementia

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If risk factors are identified and influenced, they can delay or ideally prevent the onset of dementia. Social integration is a significant and modifiable risk factor in this regard. However, there is currently a lack of comprehensive understanding of the connection between dementia risk and social integration.

Soziales Engagement wirkt sich positiv auf Gesunderhaltung aus.

The objective of the systematic review by Wang and colleagues was therefore to present the connection between social integration and dementia risk, as well as the influence of social participation over a longer period. In the study, the researchers defined „social integration“ as the individual's connection to society, family, friends, and community facilities. The authors based this definition on a specific model. Overall, the researchers analyzed 32 studies, with the observation period varying between two and 20 years. 

Social engagement has a positive impact on health maintenance

The researchers concluded that social engagement and the frequency of social contact, in particular, represent a protective factor. Furthermore, the size of one's social network can have a significant influence on maintaining health. According to Wang and colleagues, active participation in social activities plays a more important role than simply accepting social support.

Loneliness is associated with a higher risk of dementia

However, the study also highlights the negative effects of a lack of social engagement on the risk of dementia. For example, loneliness can be compared to obesity in terms of its impact as a risk factor for dementia and is even considered more significant than hearing loss as a risk factor for dementia. 

In summary, the researchers are certain that the factors identified as contributing to social integration can provide policymakers, health experts, and researchers with valuable insights for developing measures to prevent dementia in adults.

Hier geht’s zur Studie:

Association between social integration and the risk of dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal studies

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