Researchers from the University of Maryland have observed that older adults who walk regularly show improvements in memory and stronger connections between brain cells. The findings appear in a study reported in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease Reports and add to a growing body of evidence about the cognitive benefits of physical activity for aging minds.
The new work extends earlier findings by the same team, which showed that walking boosted brain function in older individuals with mild cognitive impairment. In this subsequent study, 33 volunteers aged 71 to 85 followed a walking plan on a treadmill four days a week for 12 weeks. Before and after the program, participants read a brief story and then recited it aloud, aiming for as much detail as possible to test how well verbal recall was preserved or improved after physical exercise.
To measure brain changes, researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging, or fMRI, to track activity in networks that support thinking and memory. The goal was to see how exercise might affect the internal communication within each network and the coordination between networks responsible for cognitive control, attention, and memory processing. This approach helps reveal how the brain reorganizes itself in response to sustained physical activity.
Following the 12 weeks of exercise, investigators noted increased brain activity that also appeared more synchronized across regions. In practical terms, this suggests that physical activity can stimulate the brain’s adaptability, enhancing its ability to adjust to new tasks and environments. The pattern of connectivity observed in the study aligns with theories that regular movement helps preserve neural circuits involved in memory formation and retrieval, even in advanced age.
Executive summaries from the researchers indicate that the observed changes in brain function may translate into real-world benefits for individuals dealing with mild cognitive impairment. In daily life, sharper memory, better attention, and more efficient information processing can contribute to maintaining independence and improving the quality of life. The researchers emphasize that ongoing physical activity could play a role in delaying the progression toward more severe cognitive disorders over the long term, alongside other healthy lifestyle choices and medical care.
Beyond the immediate findings, the study contributes to a broader understanding of how exercise influences brain health in seniors. By linking measurable shifts in neural activity with practical memory tasks, the work supports a growing consensus that regular movement supports cognitive reserve—the brain’s ability to compensate for age-related changes. The authors highlight that even moderate, consistent walking can be a meaningful intervention for older adults seeking to maintain cognitive function and everyday functioning as they age. Collectively, the research signals a promising avenue for nonpharmacological strategies aimed at supporting brain health in aging populations.