• Past studies show that certain lifestyle changes — such as getting more physical activity — may help lower a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease or slow its progression.
  • A new study sheds light on how physical activity helps protect the brain from Alzheimer’s disease on a cellular level.
  • Scientists believe these findings may one day lead to new prevention and treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers estimate that about 32 million people Trusted Source globally live with Alzheimer’s disease — a type of dementia that affects a person’s ability to think, communicate, and remember.

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, past studies show that certain lifestyle changes may help decrease a person’s risk for the disease or slow down its progression.

One of these main lifestyle changes is physical activity. A study published in April 2025 reported that increasing physical activity in middle age Trusted Source may help protect the brain from Alzheimer’s disease. A study published in May 2025 says older adults who sit less Trusted Source may lower their risk for the condition.