To the extent of ageing society more and more people experience burdensome age associated cognitive impairment. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may be a precursor to dementia, at least in some cases. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia. There is still no pharmacological treatment of AD. At the present time efforts are focusing on the developing of more effective strategies to slow the progression of AD. If illness onset could be delayed we would see significant reduction in AD incidence. Biological research, epidemiological studies and randomized controlled trials suggest that regular physical activity may contribute to prevention of cognitive decline in elderly subjects, to slow down the course of AD and to delay the onset of dementia. It seems that physical activity and other lifestyle nonpharmacological interventions, as intense social activity or cognitive stimulation may be effective, safe and less expensive preventive treatment strategy than pharmacological therapy. Further research is necessary to define precise recommendations in terms of type, duration and intensity of physical exercises, but there is a chance that in the near future a prevention of AD may be based on principles governing lifestyle habits such as diet, cognitive and physical activity. Moreover, these nonpharmacological interventions might positively influence general functioning, and overall quality of life in the elderly population and AD patients.

physical activity, cognitive stimulation, cognitive functions, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease