New Alzheimer’s Blood Test: What It Means And How Exercise Can Help Protect Your Brain
A new blood test for Alzheimer’s disease is making headlines around the world, offering hope for earlier detection. While this is an exciting advancement in medical research, one thing hasn’t changed is exercise remains one of the most effective, evidence-based strategies for protecting brain health and supporting cognitive function.
At Longevity Exercise Physiology, we help people improve their cognitive health through personalised exercise programs designed to support healthy ageing, reduce dementia risk, and maintain independence. Whether you’re concerned about your memory, have a family history of Alzheimer’s disease, or have recently been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or dementia, it’s never too early or too late to start moving.
What Is The New Alzheimer’s Blood Test?
A new blood test for Alzheimer’s disease has recently been approved in some countries to help doctors detect biological markers associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Traditionally, diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease has required specialised brain scans or lumbar punctures. This new blood test measures proteins in the blood that are linked to the changes occurring in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease, potentially allowing for earlier and less invasive assessment.
It is important to understand that this blood test is not recommended as a routine screening test for everyone. Instead, it is designed to assist specialists when assessing people who are experiencing memory problems or other symptoms of cognitive decline.
According to Dementia Australia, more than 433,000 Australians are currently living with dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease accounting for up to 70% of cases. As Australia’s population continues to age, this number is expected to increase significantly over the coming decades.
If you’ve noticed changes in your memory or are concerned about your brain health, speak with your GP. They can determine whether further assessment or referral to a specialist is appropriate.
Regardless of whether you ever require an Alzheimer’s blood test, there is one thing the research consistently supports: regular exercise is one of the best ways to look after your brain.
Can Exercise Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease?
The answer is yes.
Research consistently shows that regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia. While exercise cannot guarantee prevention, it is one of the strongest modifiable lifestyle factors for maintaining brain health.
Exercise can help:
- Improve Blood Flow To The Brain
- Stimulate Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), supporting brain cell growth and repair
- Improve Memory And Learning
- Reduce Inflammation
- Improve Sleep Quality
- Reduce Stress And Anxiety
- Improve Cardiovascular Health
- Reduce Risk Factors Such As High Blood Pressure, Diabetes And Obesity
- Support Healthy Ageing
- Maintain Independence
Studies have also shown that people who remain physically active throughout life have a lower risk of developing dementia compared with those who are inactive.
What If You’ve Been Diagnosed With Alzheimer’s Disease Or Mild Cognitive Impairment?
Receiving a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to know there are still many things you can do to support your brain health.
Research shows that appropriately prescribed exercise may help:
- Slow Functional Decline
- Maintain Strength And Mobility
- Improve Balance
- Reduce Falls Risk
- Improve Mood
- Maintain Independence For Longer
- Improve Quality Of Life
- Support Everyday Function
Starting an exercise program early gives you the best opportunity to maintain your physical and cognitive function for as long as possible.
Rather than waiting until symptoms worsen, taking action now can help you continue doing the activities you enjoy.
How Longevity Exercise Physiology Can Help
At Longevity Exercise Physiology, we understand that every person’s brain health journey is different.
Our Accredited Exercise Physiologists develop personalised exercise programs based on your medical history, current health, physical abilities, and goals.
Your exercise program may include:
- Aerobic Exercise
- Progressive Strength Training
- Balance Training
- Functional Movement Exercises
- Mobility And Flexibility Training
- Dual-Task Exercises (combining movement with cognitive tasks)
- Home Exercise Programs
We offer:
- One-On-One Supervised Exercise Sessions
- Gym-Based Exercise Programs
- Home Visits
- Outdoor Training
- Telehealth Consultations
Our goal is to help you stay stronger, healthier, and more independent for as long as possible while giving you the confidence to continue living an active life.
Additional Tips For Supporting Brain Health
Exercise is one of the most powerful tools available for protecting cognitive health, but it works even better alongside other healthy lifestyle habits.
To support your brain health:
- Stay Physically Active Most Days
- Challenge Your Brain With New Skills And Hobbies
- Prioritise Good Sleep
- Eat A Balanced Diet
- Manage Blood Pressure, Cholesterol And Diabetes
- Stay Socially Connected
- Avoid Smoking
- Limit Excessive Alcohol Consumption
- Speak With Your GP If You Notice Changes In Memory Or Thinking
Small lifestyle changes performed consistently can have a significant impact on your long-term brain health.
What Our Clients Say
One Longevity client recently shared:
“I originally came to improve my balance and strength, but I quickly noticed I was thinking more clearly, had more energy, and felt much more confident in everyday life.”
Another client wrote:
“The personalised support gave me confidence to keep exercising. I feel stronger, more independent, and much more optimistic about my future.”
These stories reflect what we see every day. Exercise isn’t just about improving physical health—it can play a powerful role in supporting brain health, confidence, and quality of life.
READY TO TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS BETTER BRAIN HEALTH?
Whether you’re looking to reduce your risk of dementia, support a recent diagnosis, or simply stay healthy as you age, it’s never too early to start exercising.
The earlier you begin, the greater the opportunity to protect your brain, maintain your independence, and improve your quality of life.
Call us today for a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to learn more!
Call us at Longevity Exercise Physiology Ascot Vale, Aspley, Broadbeach, Casey, Castle Hill, Coburg, Deagon, Drummoyne, Edgecliff, Five Dock, Gladesville, Gungahlin, Kingsgrove, Liverpool, Macarthur Campbelltown, Marrickville, Neutral Bay, Penrith, Pymble, Pyrmont, Randwick, Rhodes, Rosebery, Springfield, Yamanto today on 1300 964 002 to book your personalised initial consultation or for a complimentary 15-minute free phone consultation.
Written by Lexe Meyer (Exercise Physiologist at Longevity Edgecliff)
