Exercise for dementia – why it’s important and some of the best ideas

Discover how exercise can greatly benefit people with dementia, as well as some of our favourite exercise ideas 

When it comes to providing stimulating activities for people living with dementia, there is a great deal of thought concentrated on activities that can stimulate cognitive abilities and memory function such as puzzles, word games or looking through photo albums.  

Naturally, it is understandable that so much effort goes into finding ways to provide stimulation for the mind, but what is equally as important is stimulating the body for people with dementia through exercise, because very often one can have a beneficial effect for the other. 

Whether it’s indoor or outdoor exercise, helping and encouraging residents who are living with dementia to keep active with a variety of different physical activities can be hugely beneficial to their physical and mental wellbeing.  

So much of providing stimulating activities for people with dementia is about engaging with their senses and helping them to maintain their independence, a sense of self as well as a connection to the people who love them and the world around them, and physical activities provide the perfect stimulation to achieve all these goals at once. 

There are many ways that exercise can benefit someone with dementia both physically and mentally. These include: 

Get moving with these exercise ideas

While any type of movement can bring benefits for someone living with dementia, below is just a few of the many exercise ideas to try with residents: 

Walking

One of the biggest advantages of walking is that it can be done by virtually anyone. Whether it’s getting more steps indoors or whether it’s walking around the local area, taking part in a walking group outing or walking in nature, this will greatly benefit residents with dementia because it gives them the opportunity to get some fresh air, a change of scenery, and work their muscles, meaning they can potentially improve issues such as balance and mobility as well as stimulating their senses by taking in their surroundings.  

Seated exercise

Because people with dementia can often be acutely at risk of fall-related injuries, doing everything possible to ensure they retain as much mobility and stability is important. By doing seated exercises, people with dementia have the opportunity to gently work their muscles to ensure they stay balanced and maintain strength. And because studies show that regular exercise releases endorphins into the brain, this can help significantly with their mood and quality of life.  

Swimming

Under supervision, swimming can be a very powerful way to stimulate the senses because they might find the sensation of being in the water soothing and calming. The feel of the water against them allows them to maintain a connection to their surroundings. And, because swimming offers zero impact on the joints, it also gives them the chance to work their muscles without the risk of injury.

Dancing

Whether seated or standing, dancing can be a great form of exercise for people with dementia, but it also offers other benefits beyond the physical. If they are participating in a group dancing activity, they have the chance to build connections with those around them. Moreover, the type of music used in dance activities can help to rekindle fond memories, which helps them to maintain the connection with who they are and the life they have led.

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