When an older adult has dementia or Alzheimer’s and all of the challenges the conditions entail, family care providers need a toolbox full of helpful strategies. Out of all the unique strategies care providers can use to aid in making life as meaningful, safe, and comfortable as it can possibly be, there is one very effective strategy that may be ignored: the advantages of exercise.
We know that exercise is necessary for all of us, both physically and mentally, and that doesn’t change with a dementia diagnosis. Exercise can help:
Best of all, it is drug-free, so there are no unwanted side effects to worry about!
To encourage and motivate an older adult with dementia to engage in a fitness plan, plan to work out together. That way you can easily model the movements and help the individual when necessary – keeping in mind that performing the exercises as independently as possible is a good way to increase self-esteem and confidence.
Unsure where to begin? Try out these exercises, according to the senior’s ability level.
These more advanced exercises work very well for a person with lesser cognitive impairment:
Modifications will have to be made as the disease advances, but there are still lots of opportunities to incorporate physical activity into the senior’s day, such as:
Get in touch with Compassionate Nursing Services’ Town and Country memory care professionals for assistance with implementing the ideal (physician-approved) workout program for someone with dementia, along with the friendly companionship that makes exercise more pleasurable! Reach us today at 314-432-4312. Visit our Service Area page for more information about the many communities where we provide our award-winning home care services.
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