Higher levels of physical activity (PA) are known to reduce the risk of cognitive impairment, but the mechanisms underlying this association are unclear. I will first provide an overview of evidence linking PA to both cognitive and brain health. I will then describe results from a recent study testing a possible mechanism. Using longitudinal data from the Cardiovascular Health Study, we examined whether PA—a modifiable lifestyle factor linked to brain health—could prospectively predict plasma Aβ levels and risk for cognitive impairment in older adults. The results of this investigation are the first in humans to support a molecular mechanism by which physical activity lowers risk for cognitive impairment. I conclude that in late life everyday PA has a protracted impact on both body and mind.

Target Audience: physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, residents and fellows, physician assistants, nurses, social workers and other health professionals.

Educational Objectives:        

At the conclusion of the program, participants should be able to:

1. Describe evidence linking physical activity to cognitive health in late life.

2. Identify possible mechanisms by which physical activity exerts its effects on cognitive health.

3. Explain the relevance of beta amyloid to cognitive status in late life and describe a modifiable behavior related to amyloid levels.