All articles tagged with #gait speed
Mobility and balance tests can reveal early signs of aging-related decline, but they do not reliably predict future health outcomes; they should be used alongside broader assessments and healthy habits like strength training and fall prevention to support aging well.
A Neurology study analyzing data from seven studies found that adults aged 80 and older who walk as fast as younger adults—described as “super movers”—have about a 50% lower risk of cognitive impairment and a 60% lower risk of Alzheimer’s/dementia compared with slower peers, with similar brain pathology suggesting resilience rather than less disease. Faster gait appears to reflect better overall health and may indicate protective brain mechanisms, reinforcing the message that staying physically active and maintaining mobility is important for cognitive health in aging.
A study found that higher cumulative use of anticholinergic medications in older adults is associated with a faster decline in mobility and strength, suggesting clinicians should minimize use when possible to prevent long-term functional deterioration.