You can slow down cognitive decline by simply walking. A new study found that the more steps you take, the slower your brain will age. The study looked at people aged 50-90 and discovered that walking could slow down cognitive decline even if they already exhibited early signs of Alzheimer’s.

The observational study found that walking 3,000 to 5,000 steps a day delayed cognitive decline by an average of three years. Walking 5,000 to 7,000 steps could slow cognitive decline by up to seven years. The researcher cautioned against relying on a specific number of steps. Your goal should be to get in as many steps a day as possible. 

Physical activity can help stop the buildup of tau, which is a protein associated with memory loss and Alzheimer’s.