The numerous advantages of exercise are obvious, but what is not as well-known are the many benefits of exercise for Alzheimer’s patients or those with other forms of dementia. Regular exercise can help decrease the risk for muscle weakness as well as other concerns that arise from a sedentary lifestyle, can reduce the effects of emotional and behavioral changes, and more.
As with anybody who is interested in starting a new exercise regime, a physician should first be consulted. Then, try incorporating more physical activity into each and every day for a senior loved one with dementia, applying the following tips in accordance with the person’s individual functionality and the appropriate stage associated with the disease:
Beginning Stages
Seniors in the early stages of Alzheimer’s can enjoy fairly active and social exercises, including activities such as dancing, swimming, bowling, golf, and walking, although some degree of guidance and oversight may be necessary. In time, increased supervision will probably be required as the disease progresses.
Mid to Later Stages
The mid to later stages of Alzheimer’s disease are often associated with increased levels of confusion and anxiety. For that reason, noisy or overly exciting activities ought to be avoided. Repetitive exercises, including indoor bicycling and walking, and tasks like folding laundry help to lessen anxiety levels as the older adult does not have to make any judgments regarding the activity or try to recall what to do next.
Advanced Stages
In the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s, children’s toys and games may be well suited for promoting hand-eye coordination. These toys are normally brightly colored, easy to hold, and are built to stimulate the brain. In addition, stress balls or soft clay-like items can be squeezed to help build strength in the muscles in the hands.
Compassionate Care Home Health Services’ caregivers are extensively trained and experienced in innovative, kind, and considerate care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, and we are always available to help implement exercise for Alzheimer’s to help families maximize wellbeing for the seniors they love. We are proficient in helping to successfully manage such difficult behaviors as sundowning, aggression, wandering, and much more, and can offer overnight respite care to allow family caregivers to get a good night’s sleep while knowing their senior loved one is secure and safe.
Reach out to us at 877.308.1212 to hear more about our professional in-home dementia care, or to request some additional tips and resources specific to the challenges you are facing. We’re pleased to offer in-home dementia care in Midland, MI and nearby areas that help keep older adults safe at home.