People with Parkinson's disease who are more physically active may experience slower declines in memory, thinking, and movement, according to a new study published October 7, 2026, in Neurology , the official medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

The findings suggest that staying active could offer two important advantages for people living with Parkinson's. However, researchers emphasize that the study identified a connection between physical activity and slower symptom progression. It does not establish that exercise directly causes the disease to progress more slowly.

"Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that causes movement and cognitive problems that gradually worsen leading to disability and a loss of independence," said study author Dong-Woo Ryu, MD, PhD, of the University of Cincinnati in Ohio. "Previous research has shown associations between physical activity and movement symptoms.…