Hong Kong Researchers Find Longer Walks Reduce Dementia Risk

Researchers from the University of Hong Kong analyzed data from 66,483 participants in the UK Biobank. Physical activity was recorded over at least five days and participants were followed for seven years.

The study, published in Translational Psychiatry, found that longer continuous bouts of moderate‑to‑intense activity—about 13 minutes—were linked to the lowest risk of developing dementia, as well as reduced risk of depression and anxiety. Total activity time was less important than the pattern of activity.

The authors recommend that middle‑aged and older adults engage in daily periods of moderate‑to‑intense activity, such as a brisk walk lasting at least 13 minutes, ideally totaling around 36 minutes per day, rather than multiple short sessions.