06/16/2026
June is Alzheimer's Awareness Month
Did you know that walking is one of the most accessible ways to protect the brain and has profound, measurable impacts on Alzheimer's disease? As a preventative measure, regular walking can delay cognitive decline. For those already diagnosed, it helps stabilize cognitive functioning and overall mood, though walking ability gradually declines in the advanced stages of the disease.
Studies show that walking 3,000 to 5,000 steps daily is associated with delaying cognitive decline by an average of three years. Walking 5,000 to 7,500 steps can delay it by up to seven years. Experts suggest aiming for a pace of around 3.5 miles per hour for about 30 to 60 minutes a day to achieve both cardiovascular and brain benefits.
In the early and middle stages of Alzheimer's, walking promotes blood flow to the brain and helps manage physical mobility. However, changes in gait, shuffling, and unsteadiness are common. Caregivers should monitor for fall risks and ensure walking is done in safe, familiar, and well-lit environments.
https://www.alzra.org/
https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2025/11/walking-3000-5000-steps-a-day-may-delay-alzheimers/
