A study from the University of British Columbia confirms that physical exercise may help protect against Alzheimer's disease. Photo by Kzenon/Shutterstock

May 16 (UPI) -- A study by the University of British Columbia confirms that physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration resulting in severe cognitive impairment, compromised physical ability and loss of independence.


Researchers at the University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus reviewed data on more than 150 research articles about the impact of physical activity on people with Alzheimer's disease and determined that not only can physical activity reduce the risk of Alzheimer's diagnosis but also can improve the performance of daily activities for people already diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

The study showed that physical activity improves activities of daily living and mobility in adults with Alzheimer's and may improve general cognition and balance.

"As there is no current cure for Alzheimer's there is an urgent need for interventions to reduce the risk of developing it and to help manage the symptoms," Kathleen Martin Ginis, professor in UBC Okanagan's School of Health and Exercise Sciences, said in a press release.

"After evaluating all the research available, our panel agrees that physical activity is a practical, economical and accessible intervention for both the prevention and management of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias."

Numerous other studies have confirmed the potential of physical exercise to protect against Alzheimer's disease.

The study was published in BMC Public Health.