Slow Gait, Short Stride Linked to Increased Risk of Cognitive Decline

Researchers at Mayo Clinic report that walking problems such as a slow gait and short stride are associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline. Their findings were presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, July 14–19.

For the study, the researchers measured the stride length, cadence and velocity of more than 1,341 participants through a computerized gait instrument at two or more visits roughly 15 months apart. They discovered that participants with lower cadence, velocity and length of stride experienced significantly larger declines in global cognition, memory and executive function. For more information, click here to read the full release.