Being physically active is beneficial for everyone. It improves both your physical and mental health. Being active implies all activities that cause you to breathe deeply. Thus, even walking faster than usual has certain health benefits.
Exercising is also important for people who suffer from dementia. During exercise, a hormone called serotonin is produced, which improves our mood and makes us happier. However, don’t exercise too much. Always know your limits and stop exercising when you feel like it. Dementia patients should exercise with a professional every time. It is essential to perform exercises correctly to avoid pain and injuries. Start slowly and gradually increase the level of the exercises.
Benefits of Being Physically Active
Apart from improving mood, exercise also helps people who have sleeping issues. Exercising makes our bones and muscles stronger, enabling us to be independent longer. Everyday tasks, such as dressing, are much easier.
Exercises are also beneficial for cognitive skills. Regular exercise can slow down the development of memory problems, according to recent studies. This is especially important for people in the early stages of dementia.
What to Know Before Exercising
Before beginning, consult a physician, especially if a person hasn’t been physically active for a longer period. It is especially important to ask for advice if people have high blood pressure, suffer from cardiovascular problems, suddenly faint or lose their balance, have bone pain, etc.
Ask the physician what exercises are best to avoid and how often a dementia patient should exercise. If something causes them discomfort, stop immediately and find a more suitable exercise or activity.
Activities for People Who Suffer From Dementia
Walking is simple and doesn’t require a professional. Accompany your loved one and hit the road. You can walk anywhere, anytime, however much you want. When you get tired, stop and take a rest. Increase the speed and the distance over time, so you can improve your stamina.
Tai chi
Tai chi is a great way for improving balance and has many other health benefits. This Chinese martial art doesn’t require much strength and is great for people in the early stages of dementia. It consists of slow physical movements and is focused on stability.
Swimming
Swimming is one of the best activities, not only for a dementia patient. It helps in improving balance and is soothing at the same time. However, caution is required. Always keep an eye on your loved one and be close to the pool.
Dancing
If you’re looking for a fun activity for your loved one, then try dancing. The great thing about dancing is it is a social activity, since it usually includes a lot of people. Is there a more enjoyable way to be physically active than dancing?
Gardening
Gardening is enjoyable and doesn’t require a lot of effort. It is ideal for people who suffer from dementia and is one more reason to spend some time outside.
Yoga
The benefits of yoga are tremendous. Many recommend practicing chair yoga for people with dementia. Watch the video to learn the basic movements, and teach your senior how to perform it.
When exercising in a gym, things get a little bit complicated. Always consult a physician and see whether she agrees working out is a good idea. Also, find an instructor that will help your loved one to keep from getting injured.
People who suffer from dementia are usually less physically active than they were before the symptoms began. However, our mental health depends on physical health, among other things. Don’t just let them sit all day at home. Go outside, let them socialize with others, and increase their heart beat.
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