Exercise can benefit a person with dementia for a host of reasons. Apart from the physical benefits, it can also help to improve mood, promote a sense of wellbeing, and reduce the risk of restlessness.
It could also help prevent sundowning, a change of mood that typically occurs late in the afternoon or early evening. Sundowning can happen if a person is bored or restless and hasn’t had enough stimulation during the day.
If the person has vascular dementia, exercise will be particularly beneficial. This form of dementia is usually linked to cardiovascular disease, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Regular exercise reduces blood pressure and improves cardiovascular health.
Other benefits of exercise include:
Improved blood flow to the brain, making the person more alert and focused
Greater self-esteem and confidence
Improved strength and balance, reducing the risk of falls
Better sleep
More social interaction
Walking is particularly beneficial for people with dementia. It can be done anywhere, and it’s easy to fit into a daily routine. You can accompany the person on walks and support them in being active.
The government recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity three times weekly for adults. However, encouraging the person to take a walk every day, even if it’s a short walk, will still benefit their health and wellbeing.
There’s less pressure to talk when participating in an activity together as you take in the scenery around you.
Start with short walks first while you gauge what the person can manage.
Try to find out from their family how active they have been in the past and whether there are any health issues, such as asthma, that you should be aware of.
Make sure the person is well prepared when they go out. If they are asthmatic, ensure they have their inhaler with them.
Carry water and ensure that the person is appropriately dressed. They should wear layers of clothing that can be easily removed if they get too hot.
Even if it’s a mild day, take a warm item of clothing, like a fleece or coat, along with an umbrella, in case the weather changes.
Ensure the person is wearing comfortable shoes and look for signs of them getting tired.
Plan the route so that the walk isn’t too challenging. Flat grass or tarmac may be better than uneven terrain.
Walk at the person’s pace, and don’t try to rush them. You might be used to rushing around, but let them set the pace.
Don’t push the person to go for a walk if they are having a bad day. Let them know you’ll gladly go out with them if they change their mind later in the day.
Enjoy the walks! Provided the person’s GP is happy for them to be active, there’s no reason why you can’t both appreciate the mental and physical benefits of walking together!