The Healthy Link Between Fitness and Alzheimer’s Care

Exercise and Alzheimer’s Care, may not seem like it, but the two go hand in hand. Fitness is one of the few things that a person can do to not only help to prevent the oncoming symptoms of memory loss diseases, but it has been shown that there is a beneficial link when routine fitness is added to an individual’s care plan. More importantly, there is a link between increased fitness and decreased brain atrophy, which is so common with Alzheimer’s. This means that if you have a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s, you can be sure that improving activity levels for them can possibly help them fight off the symptoms of memory and cognition reduction.

Alzheimer’s Care Professionals Promote Active Lifestyles

The reason that professional eldercare aides promote active lifestyles for seniors is because fitness can have a positive impact on all health issues for an aging individual. Exercise and being active can improve blood pressure, lower glucose levels, increase natural tiredness that results in better sleep and even improve the brain power of an individual. Additionally, the added activity during the daytime can improve natural sleep cycles, and reduce the likelihood of sundowners.

Little Changes for Big Results

Over the last several years, more and more advanced studies have been done on what causes and may alleviate the symptoms of the disease. While research is still being done, many Senior care professionals believe that while exercise is crucial in Alzheimer’s care, it does not have to be a strenuous activity or require a lot of time. Rather, it is actually most effective in combating the disease when done on a regular basis, while combined with mental activity, increased social activity, and a diet that supports healthy brain function.

Integrating Fitness with Alzheimer’s Care

There are many exercise options available that can be done by seniors on their own, or with the help of a caregiver. We recommend 20-30 minutes a day, but speak to your primary care provider before starting a fitness regime. Some of these options include Water aerobics for a low impact option in a class setting, walking or hiking for an easy way to get activity, or daily stretching or geriatric yoga to help restore balance and flexibility.

ComfortCare Homes of Wichita, KS provides memory care services to the following cities and neighborhoods: Wichita, Derby, Augusta, El Dorado, Newton, Hutchinson, Pretty Prairie, Kingman, Norwich, Conway Springs, Belle Plaine, and the surrounding areas of Kansas.