Physical Exercise for People with Dementia
Regular physical activity is the key to functional preservation of people with dementia throughout the various stages, and it significantly improves the overall quality of life for both the patients and their family members. Therefore, it is crucial to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine throughout the entire course of the disease.
It is recommended to consult with a physiotherapist to adapt activities and exercises according to the physical abilities of the specific patient. Physiotherapists can help with guiding you how to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine.
Even if you have never engaged in physical activity, any form of physical activity is better than none at all. Therefore, it is essential to start exercising even if small amounts are all you can do.
Physical activity for people with dementia can promote the quality of life in several ways:
- Improving balance and reducing the risk of falls
- Improving posture
- Strengthening muscles and improving flexibility
- Assisting in daily functioning
- Assisting in cognitive ability preservation
- Alleviating pain
- Improving a sense of competence and boosting the mood
- Improving sleep quality
Appropriate types of physical activity for people with dementia
Physical activity should consist of three components, each helping improve a different area:
- Aerobic physical activity: Aerobic activity is a type of activity that increases your pulse for a sustained period of time, such as brisk walking, running, exercise bikes, etc.
- Strength training exercises for muscle strengthening: Strength exercises primarily concentrate on the lower limbs and aim to enhance the ability to work against resistance
- Balance exercises.
It is crucial to maintain maximum safety during physical activity by choosing appropriate clothing, by accompanying the person during the activity inside and outside the house, by removing obstructions in the exercise area, etc.