Objective: This study examined the AD/exercise hypothesis which posits exercise enhances neural function and attenuates AD symptoms/delays onset through enhanced expression of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor; a peptide that plays a major role in neural function and the mediation/attenuation of the primary AD pathogen, ß-amyloid.

Methods: Participants (N = 19; mean 85.5 yrs, SD = + 5.20) diagnosed with probable AD completed a single treatment, regular walking over time (30-min, 3 days per week for 12 weeks); pre/post-test evaluations measured cognitive function and motor capabilities. Statistics - T-test with repeated measures ANOVA with various categorical variables as between-group factors.

Results: Along with significant reduction in falls (z = 2.392, p < .017), change in Cognitive function [t(18) = 5.74, p < .001], Balance [t(18) = 7.43, p < .001], and Mobility [t(18) = 3.82, p < .001] were significant. No main effect was associated with AD stage, Activities of daily living, Gender, or Education level.

Conclusion: Along with illustrating the positive effects exercise can have in the elderly, results of this study support the exercise hypothesis positing regular aerobic exercise enhances neural function in persons with probable AD, thus possibly attenuating AD symptoms and delaying AD onset.