Did you know that the Alzheimer’s Association recommends participating in physical fitness activities?

Staying active will help will reduce the risks factors correlated with dementia.

There’s a definite link between exercise and dementia. Unfortunately, things aren’t always what they would seem to be at the first glance.

Read on to find out three big things you need to know when approaching the subject of physical activity and dementia.

1. Physical Activity Reduces the Risk of Dementia

If your loved one isn’t currently suffering from any form of dementia then an exercise regimen may be exactly what they need.

Studies show that those who are active are less likely to suffer from dementia. The Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention Foundation considers exercise to be one of their four pillars. These provide a stable ground to prevent the disease.

It’s associated with a 50% decrease in the risk for Alzheimer’s. It’s advised that exercise remains moderate for older patients to lower risk.

The incorporation of balance training is also important to reduce fall risk in elderly patients as well

2. Exercise and Dementia Isn’t a Clear Subject

The findings are much less conclusive for those who already have some form of dementia.

Dementia and exercise is still a somewhat controversial subject. Since socializing is so important in the continued treatment of dementia, it’s hard to draw conclusions.

Elderly patients are more likely to engage in group activities when exercising. This makes it important to find a home which offers exercise rooms and other amenities.

Exercise remains important throughout a person’s life. The exact exercises for dementia patients remain open to debate, however.

The majority of dementia exercise programs out there are a good idea to maintain fitness in the elderly. They just don’t combat dementia symptoms directly.

Other studies have found that mild aerobic exercise can have a protective effect.

3. Heavy Physical Exercise Can Have Adverse Effects

A recent study in the British Medical Journal showed an adverse effect in patients who are already suffering from dementia.

The difference between the control group and those who participated in the program was 1.4% at the end of the study.

That’s not a huge difference, but it may be enough that in the future the exercise recommendations for seniors with dementia will be lessened.

This depends on what future studies in the area find. The effects of physical activity and dementia are complicated and studies have only recently begun in the area.

Moving Forward

Exercise and dementia is a tricky subject. It may be time for your loved one to head to an assisted living facility, but it’s important to put them in one that understands.

If they’re approaching the twilight time of their life then it’s important to make sure that they’re in good hands and have the proper facilities available to them.

These include areas to exercise, to socialize, and the ability to exert control over their life. Assisted living can be very important to help achieve this.

If you’re looking for an assisted living in the Washington D.C. area then feel free to contact us and arrange a tour.