Some older adults are moving fast, and their brains may be keeping pace.
A recent study led by Stony Brook Medicine in New York found that older adults identified as “super movers” were about half as likely to develop cognitive impairment as their peers. The study evaluated the cognitive function of 4,000 adults aged 80 and over who took part in multiple aging and longevity studies over several years.
Among that group, 6 percent to 10 percent were classified as super movers. The term refers to people who walk at a much faster pace than others of the same age and gender, at speeds comparable to people three decades younger.
The findings were published in the journal Neurology on June 16.
“The study reinforces that mobility and brain health are closely connected,” lead study author Dr. Joe Verghese, MD, neurologist at Stony Brook Medicine, told Fox News Digital. “This suggests that preserving mobility may be an important marker of healthy brain aging and resilience.”
Verghese said the most intriguing finding was that super movers maintained cognitive function despite having similar dementia-related brain changes as their peers.
In postmortem brain analysis, the study stated there was no difference in dementia-related pathologies between the super movers and the slower walkers.
“This suggests they may possess resilience mechanisms that help preserve brain function even in the presence of age-related changes,” he said. “Understanding these resilience factors could lead to new strategies for promoting healthy brain aging.”
Researchers noted the study was observational and does not prove that walking faster prevents dementia.
“Other factors, such as cardiovascular health, physical fitness or genetics, may also contribute to both faster walking and better cognitive outcomes,” Verghese said.
He said the study adds to growing evidence that what is good for the heart and muscles also benefits the brain, adding that “staying physically active remains one of the most effective, evidence-based ways to support healthy aging.”
“Walking speed is best viewed as a marker of overall health, not a treatment.”
Verghese said the broader message is that physical activity matters at any age, and that walking can be a practical place to start.
“Walking is an easy step-up point because you don’t need any special equipment. You can do it inside or outdoors, and you can do it on a regular basis. You can walk with a dog, you can walk with a friend.”
He added that any activity is beneficial if it is done regularly and with the right intensity.
Rather than simply trying to walk faster, Verghese recommended that seniors focus on maintaining mobility through regular physical activity, strength training, balance exercises and good cardiovascular health.
Major public health guidelines from the CDC and U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking. The source said this can be achieved by walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week, or about 20 to 25 minutes most days. Another option is shorter sessions that add up over the day.
“You have to do it within your health limitations and medical conditions,” Verghese advised. “So if there are any medical concerns, I would get your physician to clear you before starting exercise.”
He added that walking can begin at a slow pace and gradually build to a brisker pace.
“And then adding on strength and balance training, whatever age you are, I think is also important.”
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