Role Of Exercise In The Lives Of Individuals Living With Alzheimer’s Disease

Exercise is a vital element of healthful lifestyle; it helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, strengthens the bones and muscles, and helps reduce stress. It also appears that exercise benefits the brain. In recent years, a growing body of evidence suggests that regular physical activity can be beneficial for those living with the Alzheimer’s disease, potentially slowing or reversing the progression of symptoms (in people who already have toxic buildups of beta-amyloid protein). According to studies, people who are physically active are less likely to experience a decline in their mental function, and possibly have improved thinking among people with vascular cognitive impairment.

Alzheimer’s is a chronic progressive disease, and its treatment goes beyond well just medications to preserve cognitive function and the quality of life. Reality orientation training, caregiver support, and other non-drug interventions can be highly beneficial for those living with Alzheimer’s, and exercise may be yet another crucial tool in the Alzheimer’s treatment plan.

Exercise may help improve few Alzheimer’s related conditions:

Depression- Most people living with Alzheimer’s are bound to experience major depression, which can not only impact the quality of life, but can also worsen memory loss in those already struggling with dementia. Physical exercise stimulates hormones and neurotransmitters production, including endorphins, encephalins and serotonin, which can help elevate mood and enhance memory.

Coordination and Balance- The ability to walk and carry out day-to-day tasks begin to decline with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. It is essential to preserve physical balance, strength and coordination in order to maintain a quality of life since people living with Alzheimer’s are three times more at risk for falls and hip fractures than people without. Exercise on a regular basis helps maintain an upright posture which makes up for imbalances that occur when walking, bending, turning, etc.

Cognitive Impairment- As mentioned earlier, routine exercise, especially aerobic exercise can help prevent or reverse the loss of cognitive function (occurred as a result of age and Alzheimer’s disease) while reducing adverse psychiatric symptoms in certain cases.

Restlessness and Wandering- Restlessness and wandering are some of the more challenging aspects that can occur at any stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Exercise can be instrumental in alleviating agitation and improving overall physical and emotional well-being. Any form of physical activity, as simple as a routine walk (rather than sitting alone in a confined space) even if someone is in an advanced stage of dementia, may help.

We can definitely say that the benefits of exercise in individuals with Alzheimer’s exceed the possible risks if applied appropriately and safely.

Senior Sanctuary of Anthem in Phoenix- an award-winning senior living in Anthem facility- offers specialized dementia care and Alzheimer's to people living with mild to severe impairment. Your loved one’s comfort and safety are the main focus of our experienced and skilled caregivers, who are well-trained in connecting and communicating throughout the stages of dementia. Our caregivers are available round the clock to ensure safety even in the event of wandering, sundowning or anxiety.