Why Exercise For Dementia Patients Helps

As our population continues to age, dementia has become one of the most pressing public health challenges. A condition that affects over 55 million people worldwide, dementia is characterised by a range of neurodegenerative conditions with the most common being Alzheimer’s disease. While there is currently no cure for dementia, current evidence is continuing to grow and supports the role of exercise for dementia as one of the most effective tools in slowing its progression as well as improving quality of life. 

At Longevity Health and Fitness, we see firsthand how movement can act as medicine, helping dementia patients maintain independence, function and emotional well-being for as long as possible. In this blog, we will explore how and why exercise works, as well as what types of physical activity are most beneficial. 

Understanding dementia and its impact 

Dementia is characterised by a decline in memory, cognitive ability, problem-solving and other thinking skills that are used in daily life. These changes are often accompanied by changes to mood, behaviour and a loss of physical coordination and strength. 

As dementia progresses, patients often experience a decline in mobility and an increased risk of falls, which therefore increases their risk of developing other chronic conditions. While medication can assist with managing symptoms, it cannot stop the progression of the disease. Exercise, however, has been found to be a non-pharmacological intervention that can effectively slow the progression and development of dementia and its symptoms. 

Benefits of exercise for dementia patients 

Current evidence consistently shows that exercise for dementia patients can support cognitive, mental and physical health. Some of the key benefits include: 

Improved brain function 

Exercise increases blood flow to the brain which delivers nutrients, including oxygen, that help protect brain cells and allow them to function. It also stimulates the release of growth factors that promotes survival of neurons. Regular physical activity has also been linked to slower cognitive decline and improved executive function in people with dementia. 

Mood and mental health regulation

Due to changes in the brain, those with dementia are at a higher risk of depression and anxiety. Physical activity has been found to help regulate mood by increasing the release of feel good hormones including serotonin and endorphins. Supervised or group-based exercise can also create a sense of connection and community, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. 

Increased mobility and strength 

Exercise can maintain, and at times increase muscle strength, joint flexibility and balance, all key components in reducing the risk of falls and injuries. This can help dementia patients maintain their independence and be able to complete daily tasks, including walking, dressing and bathing. 

Improved sleeping patterns 

Many dementia patients experience disruptions to their sleep, which can lead to changes in cognition and behaviour. Exercise helps regulate the circadian rhythm to assist with a deeper and more restful sleep. 

Slowing symptom progression

Although exercise cannot cure dementia, current evidence suggests that it can slow the progression of cognitive and physical decline in some individuals. Even smaller improvements in capacity can have a significant impact on quality of life and the ability to live independently for longer. 

Recommended types of exercise 

A well-rounded exercise intervention that combines different types of exercise is beneficial for individuals with dementia. Each mode of exercise targets different aspects of health and physical capacity, which can together improve overall well-being and assist with slowing cognitive decline. These types of exercise include: 

Aerobic exercise 

Activities that increase your heart rate and are repetitive, including walking, swimming and cycling, improve cardiovascular health and blood flow to the brain. Aim for moderate intensity, where breathing is faster but conversation is still possible, a couple of times a week.

Strength training 

Resistance training using light weights, resistance bands or body weight helps maintain muscle mass and physical function. It is recommended that this type of exercise is completed 2-3 times per week, with a focus on major muscle groups. 

Balance and flexibility exercises 

Specific balance exercises, as well as activities including yoga and Tai Chi, improve balance, coordination and range of motion. This is key to decreasing the risk of falls and fractures. 

Coordination training 

Activities including hand-eye tasks, ball tasks or stepping sequences help those with dementia enhance motor control, reaction time and everyday functional skills. This type of exercise supports independence and reduces the risk of accidents during daily tasks. 

Tailoring exercise to the individual  

It’s important to note that with differing symptoms and stages of the condition, not all dementia patients will respond the same way to exercise. For some, cognitive impairments may affect memory, understanding and motivation, which can add extra challenge to exercise. Physical symptoms such as reduced coordination, muscle weakness, balance issues or fatigue can also impact a person’s ability to engage in general exercise and movements. 

As exercise specialists, we assess each person’s cognitive and physical capacity, as well as their medical history and goals. This allows us to create an individualised program that can be regressed and progressed appropriately when needed. Safety is always the top priority, especially for those who have a higher falls risk. 

Supervised exercise provides a safe environment for those with dementia, where exercise professionals can continue to monitor movements and spot potential falls for safety and prevention. It also offers consistent motivation, helping clients to stay engaged and complete sessions they may not always feel up to doing. Supervision also allows for exercises to be appropriately progressed and regressed based on the client’s changing physical and cognitive capacity, as well as how they may be feeling day to day. 

Ready to get moving?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, it’s never too early or too late to start moving. Our team of clinical exercise professionals are here to support you every step of the way. We’re passionate about helping dementia patients stay independent and build longevity. Get in touch with our team today to book a consultation and find out more about how movement can be a meaningful part of your dementia care.