Physical Exercise Can Help Dementia Patients: Here’s the Deal

Learn the Best Physical Activities for Dementia Patients

Keep moving. That’s the message from experts about staying fit both mentally and physically for people with dementia. However, with more than 70 kinds of dementia, there’s no single recommendation for the best physical exercise and what results to expect.

How Does Exercise Help with Dementia?

Does exercise help dementia? The answer is probably yes. Research shows that even moderate physical activity can reduce a person’s risk of developing dementia. 

Can Exercise Prevent Dementia?

No. We cannot rely on exercise alone to prevent or cure all cases of dementia. There are many types of dementia and numerous potential causes of it. There are some hereditary types and exercise cannot prevent those genes from being passed down through the generations.

The Benefits of Exercise for Dementia Patients

As you would expect for anyone who exercises, people with dementia who regularly exercise improve their strength, agility, flexibility, aerobic endurance, and balance. A recent study revealed that getting regular exercise also reduces unexpected hospitalizations for those with mild dementia. Additionally, Alzheimer’s Texas reports that exercise can improve mood, memory, executive function, and sleep for those with dementia.

While exercise is not a cure for dementia, experts including Amelia Schafer, education director at the Alzheimer’s Association in Denver, say that regular cardiovascular workouts can possibly improve the cognition of a person with certain types of dementia.

She says that an Alzheimer’s patient who exercised regularly once commented to her that he was feeling better two years after his diagnosis. “He said the difference was that he was in a better mood, and exercise has a long history of impacting moods,” she said.

What Are Good Exercises for Dementia Patients?

Dementia exercises should keep the person moving and engaged without putting too much pressure on their joints or making them physically uncomfortable.

According to Schafer, “People should do what they enjoy doing and what they are used to doing.” 

She says the best workouts for dementia are cardiovascular workouts. “A cardio workout is the most beneficial. Anything that can increase oxygen and blood flow to the brain.”

Try the following exercises for the dementia patient in your life:

• Walking
• Stretching bands
• Weightlifting
• Gardening
• Biking
• Dancing

The Risks of Physical Exercise for Dementia Patients

Schafer cautions that the risks of exercise should not outweigh the benefits. As dementia progresses, it can impair balance and visual perception. This means someone with dementia may eventually become better off doing chair exercises or helping in the garden rather than continuing to play tennis or skiing.

Homewatch CareGivers Supports Exercise Goals for Dementia Patients

Providing in-home support for a loved one with dementia takes a team effort. Homewatch CareGivers Total Care Solutions™ offers a range of home care solutions that are personalized to meet each individual’s needs. 

The tailored services can include facilitating the physical activities your loved one enjoys or providing transportation to fitness classes. To learn more, contact Homewatch CareGivers online or call 888-404-5191 today.