Physical Frailty Linked to Alzheimer's Disease

Here's another reason to step up your strength training: A study recently published in the journal Neurology found that physical frailty may be linked to Alzheimer's disease.

The study looked at the brains of 165 older adults who, while living, were participants in a community aging study. They found that those whose brains showed the plaques and tangles indicative of Alzheimer's pathology were more likely to have been physically frail when alive. Frailty had been measured by grip strength, time to walk 8 feet, body composition, and tiredness.

These findings aren't surprising, considering that a study using the same participants while they were alive suggested that those who were physically frail but had no cognitive impairment were more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease in the future than those who were not physically frail.

The study doesn't prove that physical frailty causes Alzheimer's, but the link is interesting. Physical frailty has other risks, including icreased falls and injuries, so why not take a proactive approach? Engaging in regular exercise -- especially strength training -- is a great way to prevent physical frailty. Just be sure to choose a workout you enjoy so that you do it consistently.

For more information:

• Strength Training for Beginners
• Can Exercise Help Prevent Alzheimer's?

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