Exercising with Dementia
Q: Can people with dementia still exercise safely?
A: Absolutely. With the right approach, exercise can be safely and effectively adapted for all stages of dementia. It’s important to tailor activities to the individual’s abilities, routines, and preferences, and to focus on consistency, encouragement, and enjoyment.
Q: What are the benefits of exercise for someone living with dementia?
A: Exercise can help maintain independence, improve balance and mobility, reduce the risk of falls, and ease symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and poor sleep. It also supports brain health and can help slow cognitive decline.
Q: What kind of exercise is best for someone with dementia?
A: Gentle, familiar movements work best—walking, seated exercises, dancing, stretching, light resistance work, or even gardening. The key is that it feels safe, purposeful, and enjoyable.
Q: How often should someone with dementia exercise?
A: Ideally, some form of physical activity should happen daily—even if it’s just a short walk or chair-based routine. Regular movement helps maintain a sense of structure and well-being.
Q: Can exercise reduce the progression of dementia?
A: While exercise is not a cure, it can help slow decline, preserve function, and improve quality of life. It supports circulation, brain health, and mental well-being—all of which are protective factors.
Exercise for Older Adults
Q: Is it safe to start exercising in later life?
A: Yes, it’s never too late to start. With proper guidance, older adults can safely improve strength, stamina, balance, and flexibility—even if they’ve been inactive for years.
Q: What are the key benefits of staying active as we age?
A: Regular exercise reduces the risk of falls, supports heart health, maintains muscle mass and joint function, improves mood, and helps with everyday tasks like climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
Q: How much exercise is recommended for older adults?
A: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, plus strength-based exercises on two or more days. This can be broken down into manageable sessions that suit individual ability.
Q: What if I have joint pain or mobility issues?
A: Exercise can be adapted to your needs. Low-impact, chair-based, or water-based exercises are excellent for those with arthritis, mobility challenges, or long-term conditions. The goal is to keep moving safely.
Q: How do I stay motivated to keep exercising?
A: Doing activities you enjoy—like walking with friends, dancing, or working with a qualified professional—makes it easier to stay consistent. Setting small, meaningful goals helps build lasting routines.