Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging and there is no single magic bullet for slowing its progressive nature. However, although each individual has a different journey, research shows that exercise almost always has a positive impact on overall well-being for people living with dementia (PLWD). Also indirectly for people caring for them. General exercise and guided exercise training both have a role, but how exactly do they help? As research across the world begins to focus more on quality of life for PLWD and those caring for them, let’s explore some insights from studies so far. The following information relates to PLW mild-to-moderate dementia:Better Function: Exercise has been found to help maintain and sometimes improve functional activities such as eating, dressing, grooming, bathing and toileting. Sometimes it appears to help cognitive function to some extent, but this is less clear in the current research.Improved Mood and Behaviour: Regular exercise releases endorphins, those feel-good hormones that can help reduce the anxiety and depression often associated with dementia. It can also improve overall vitality while having a calming effect and decreasing challenging behaviours.The benefits of exercise have been proven, but how do you get started? Of course, it will depend on how used to exercising the person is, so the tips below are a guide only:Start Slowly: Begin with general activities the person enjoys and can do comfortably. It could be a leisurely stroll in the park, gentle chair exercises or even dancing to their favourite tunes, if safe to do. Remember, the key is to keep it enjoyable and sustainable.If the person is used to exercising: they may not need to change their routine but may be happy to try a few new moves.Guided exercise training: This is usually with a tailored exercise program designed and monitored by a health professional such as a physiotherapist, for specific benefits. Examples include balance training, strength training or fitness training based on the person’s capacity at the start. Exercises can address areas of deficit, to elevate someone to a higher level of function, through an appropriate program.General exercise: is important and includes activities such as walking, swimming or stretching. It brings general benefits such as feeling better, maintaining activity levels, general fitness and preventing chronic disease.Keep it Regular: Aim for a total of at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. It can be done in chunks of a minimum (if possible) of 10 min, but consistency is key! Create a routine with exercise as part of your daily schedule. Mix it up with different activities to keep things interesting.Adapt Activities: As dementia progresses, you may need to modify exercises based on the person’s abilities. Incorporating new activities that focus on coordination, and using large muscle groups could be a good strategy. Simple movements can go a long way. Please remember that both of you need to stay safe!The best part? You don’t have to do this alone! Jasmine Health Care is highly skilled and experienced in supporting caregivers and people living with dementia. We provide personalised programs tailored to the specific needs of the individual, that go beyond the scope of the information in this post. We’re here to guide you, answer your questions, and ensure you get the most out of your exercise journey.Remember, incorporating exercise into the daily routine can make a positive difference. Leave a comment below and let us know how exercise has helped you or someone you know who is living with dementia. We’d love to hear about your experiences and offer any guidance you may need!
https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/ijtr.2017.0168 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1836955317301467?via%3Dihub https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568163718301211?via%3Dihub