Sustained physical activity slows cognitive decline, study finds

1970s rocker Tom Petty probably said it best in his song, Mary Jane’s Last Dance: “I don’t know, but I’ve been told. Never slow down, never grow old.”

Researchers at the University of Georgia’s College of Public Health say there’s something to that, at least when it comes to cognitive health. Their study found that regular and sustained physical activity significantly reduces the rate of cognitive decline in older adults. 

The findings provide new insight into how even modest, consistent movement habits can delay the onset of dementia and help preserve independence in later life.

Led by assistant professor Suhang Song from the Department of Health Policy and Management, the study analyzed 16 years of data from more than 13,000 participants in the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study. The results emphasize the cognitive benefits of staying physically active well into older age.

“We found that longer and more frequent engagement in physical activity was associated with delayed cognitive decline,” said Song. “These protective benefits grew over the length of the study.”

Every movement counts

The study categorized physical activity by intensity, ranging from vigorous (e.g., running, jogging), to moderate (gardening, dancing, stretching), to mild (housework, home repairs). Rather than focusing on strict durations, researchers evaluated habits and frequency over time.

Their findings are hopeful: even increasing vigorous activity to just once a week or moderate activity a few times per week was linked to a slower rate of mental decline.

“The improvement of the decline rate may seem modest,” said Song, “but it builds up over time. If this slower decline continues, it could potentially delay the onset of dementia by many years.”

While previous studies have linked physical activity with cognitive health, the UGA research is distinct in its emphasis on consistency and long-term engagement. Song and her team believe these results can guide more effective public health strategies and personal wellness planning.

The study calls for support structures – from primary care to community programming – that help older adults build sustainable movement routines. Physicians, caregivers, and policy makers should encourage realistic, long-term activity goals that align with individuals’ lifestyles and capabilities.

“Our findings offer support in informing targeted interventions that support timely, consistent, and long-term physical activity among older adults,” said Song. “Continuous physical activity is an important proactive measure.”

Just keep moving

For aging adults and those who care for them, the study delivers a powerful message: movement is medicine for the brain. Whether it’s a brisk walk, dancing in the kitchen, or tending a garden, every bit of physical activity can help defend against the effects of time.

As America’s population ages, promoting lifelong activity could be one of the most effective tools in preserving cognitive function and quality of life.