Walking Speed, Grip Strength at Middle Age May Predict Dementia, Stroke

Simple tests like walking speed and hand grip strength can predict risk of stroke or dementia at middle age, a new study showed. 

“These are basic office tests which can provide insight into risk of dementia and stroke and can be easily performed by a neurologist or general practitioner,” said Erica C. Camargo, MD, MSc, PhD, with Boston Medical Center.

The study followed 2410 middle-aged people, (mean age 62) over 11 years of follow up, during which time participants’ walking speed, hand grip strength, and cognitive function were tested and brain scans were performed. 

Over the course of the study, 34 participants developed dementia and 70 had a stroke.  Slower walking speeds were associated with a 50% increase to risk of dementia, as well as significantly lower brain volume and performance on cognitive function tests.  In participants 65-years and older, higher baseline grip strength was associated with a 42% decrease in stroke risk. 

“While frailty and lower physical performance in elderly people have been associated with an increased risk of dementia, we weren’t sure until now how it impacted people of middle age,” said Camargo. “Further research is needed to understand why this is happening and whether preclinical disease could cause slow walking and decreased strength.”

-Michael Potts