Staying active is important for everyone. Regular physical activity is essential for older adults living with dementia—it brings joy, health, and wellness to every day, and these are key to quality of life. So how can you help a loved one with dementia exercise? What exercises are ideal?
6 physical activities for seniors in memory care include:
- Walking
- Chair yoga
- Tai chi
- Water aerobics
- Strength training
- Dancing
Why Exercise Is Important for Someone with Dementia
Exercise offers benefits far beyond physical health. It’s well-known for enhancing mood and reducing anxiety. For older adults living with memory impairment, regular physical exercise can bring a sense of calm to everyday life.
Meanwhile, it also helps maintain strength, flexibility, and heart health. Even low-impact movements contribute to better overall mobility, making it easier for seniors to navigate their lives. It reduces the risk of discomfort, trips, and falls, which makes their daily lives much safer.
Cognitive benefits are another significant advantage. Regular activity has been connected to improvements in memory retention, mental processing, and focus. Though dementia is a progressive condition, staying active can help slow cognitive decline and improve their overall health.
Safety Concerns for Exercising When Dementia Is Involved
Even though regular exercise is important, safety has to be a top priority. When dementia is involved, your loved one faces unique challenges when trying to exercise. Having a caregiver, family member, or loved one nearby helps make sure your loved one has immediate access to support if necessary.
When helping a loved one exercise, make sure you consider factors like:
- Their mobility, flexibility, and overall fitness level
- Any limitations or physical difficulties they may face
- Their personal preferences and interests
- The time of day that works best for them to exercise
It helps to consult a healthcare professional or work with their caregivers before starting any exercise routine. A proper plan is key to keeping your loved one safe!
Senior-Friendly Exercises for Someone with Dementia
Physical activity can take many forms. You’ll need to recommend exercises that are enjoyable and comfortable. Tailoring these to your loved one’s preferences makes it easier to follow an exercise routine.
So what exercises are ideal for someone with dementia?
1. Walking
Walking is one of the most effective exercises for seniors. A gentle walk, whether indoors or outdoors, promotes circulation and clears the mind. For seniors in memory care, walking offers an easy way to steadily improve their overall health—and it can be done anywhere!
Start with short routes, such as laps around a room or a path near their residence. Pairing the walk with a nice conversation keeps the experience positive, and it also gives you a chance to bond!
2. Chair Yoga
Chair yoga provides seniors with all the benefits of traditional yoga. However, instead of standing, your loved one can relax and avoid straining themself.
Chair yoga involves simple stretches and breathing exercises. These work together and help flexibility and stress levels. Focus on moves that promote joint mobility, like seated twists or gentle arm stretches, as these offer everyday benefits.
3. Tai Chi
Tai chi offers slow, flowing movements that improve balance, focus, and coordination. The calming nature of this activity makes it helpful for older adults with dementia, as it combines light exercise with stress relief.
4. Water Aerobics
Water aerobics is a fantastic joint-friendly activity. The water’s buoyancy supports the body and makes it easier to move without strain. It’s especially beneficial for seniors dealing with arthritis or joint pain.
Choose pools with low water levels and always have somebody else nearby present. Group activities led by an instructor can be a great way to foster both exercise and social interaction.
5. Light Strength Training
Muscle strength is essential for mobility and balance as we age. Fortunately, it’s easy to work light strength training into an exercise routine. Your loved one can use small hand weights or resistance bands as they see fit to make strength training more effective.
Encourage easy exercises, like bicep curls or leg raises. Keeping these sessions short helps avoid discomfort, and always watch out for signs of strain or pain.
6. Dancing
Few activities are as uplifting as dancing. It combines music, movement, and expression together. This makes it a form of exercise that offers significant mood-lifting benefits!
Music is often used as a therapy option for seniors living with dementia. It brings joy and comfort to an everyday routine. When dancing is involved, music offers a great way to stay active.
Health & Wellness Are Within Reach
Staying active is an essential part of a senior’s health and wellness. Physical activity doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s all about finding joyful ways to move. From walking to water aerobics, these activities can have meaningful benefits.
If you’re eager to help your loved one live an active, healthy lifestyle, reach out to our team at Kingston at Dupont. We’d love to help your loved one along their journey, and we’re here for you and your family. Schedule a tour with us today!
