Page 47 - Seniors Today Febuary 2020
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strenuous than exercises in a standing position.
Some examples of seated exercises include:
•Turning the upper body from side to side
•Raising the heels and toes
•Raising the arms towards the ceiling
•Raising the opposite arm and leg
•Bending the legs
•Clapping under the legs
•Bicycling the legs
•Making circles with the arms
•Practising moving from sitting to standing
People who exercise regularly are less likely to experience heart Other activities
disease and stroke, both factors associated with an increased risk
of dementia If exercises are boring, these physical activities
to make or things to remember about what to do can be incorporated into a person’s lifestyle.
next. Gardening: Gardening activities may help
An exercise programme incorporated into a strengthen the body’s muscles and improve
person’s lifestyle in the early stages of dementia breathing. Gardening can be an enjoyable
is more likely to be maintained as the condition activity for people at all stages of dementia
progresses, extending the benefits to health and Dancing: It can increase strength and
well-being for as long as possible. flexibility, help with staying steady and agile,
In moderate to late stages of dementia, support and reduce stress.
and encouragement from family, carers and Swimming: Swimming, under supervision, is
service providers is important to ensure that a good activity for people with dementia. Many
an exercise program is maintained. Accessing people find the sensation of being in the water
a structured exercise programme with trained soothing and calming.
staff and using family, friends and volunteers Walking: Walking suits all abilities. It is free,
can help to ensure this. does not need specialist equipment, and can be
done anywhere.
Most effective exercises It is important to seek advice from your
Resistance or weight training involves physiotherapist on what type and intensity of
exercising muscles against an external force that exercise is best suited to you.
provides resistance to the movement.
Flexibility and balance exercises strengthen
the spine and supporting muscles and improve
coordination and balance.
Aerobic exercises is defined as exercise
performed at a moderate level of intensity over a
long period of time. It improves general physical
health and increases blood flow to the brain.
Examples of aerobic exercise are brisk walking,
dancing, jogging, bicycling and swimming.
Seated exercises
People with dementia can benefit from a regular
programme of seated exercise sessions. These
exercises are aimed at building or maintaining
If exercise is boring, try activities such as gardening, which can
muscle strength and balance, and are less help strengthen the body’s muscles and improve breathing
47 SENIORS TODAY | Issue #8 | February 15, 2020
