For general health and well-being, physical activity is crucial, particularly for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease. It is thought that regular exercise can increase physical health, elevate mood, and improve cognitive function—all of which are critical for preserving the quality of life as the disease progresses. However, promoting physical exercise might not be all that easy, especially if seniors have other issues that make it hard to exercise or they’re used to a more sedentary lifestyle.
Still, with the right Alzheimer’s home care plan in place, loved ones and the support team can help seniors get up and get moving.
How Exercise Benefits Seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease
One way to get seniors on board with Alzheimer’s home care services that include exercise is to let them know about the benefits they’ll gain, such as:
- Cognitive Stimulation: Research has shown that exercise can prevent cognitive aging by enhancing brain function and stimulating neuroplasticity—the capacity of the brain to create new connections.
- Mental Wellness: Consistent exercise can reduce agitation, anxiety, and depression, which can be major behavioral issues that exist in Alzheimer’s home care.
- Better Sleep: Exercise can help control sleep cycles, which can help with problems like insomnia or nighttime restlessness.
- Improved Mobility and Balance: Exercise keeps muscles strong, flexible, and balanced, which reduces the chance of accidents and falls.
- Social Interaction: Engaging in outdoor or group fitness activities can foster socializing and reduce feelings of loneliness, which is something that seniors aging in place often struggle with.
Customizing Exercise: Tips from Alzheimer’s Home Care
Another way to get seniors on board is to make sure exercise is customized to their needs and interests. Additionally, it’s important to talk with the medical team to establish a safe level of activity before beginning any fitness program.
Another thing to consider is that the needs and interests will likely shift as the disease progresses, which is why the following should be considered along with assistance from Alzheimer’s home care:
Track Fatigue
As their condition worsens, seniors may become more easily fatigued. Loved ones should note how energetic seniors are and make sure to give them lots of breaks. Consistency should always come before intensity, meaning that short, regular workouts are frequently more advantageous than one long session.
Adjust Activities
Adapt activities to the seniors’ present capabilities as their physical abilities deteriorate. Even basic exercises like raising and lowering their arms or lightly tapping their feet can provide physical benefits.
Ensuring Safety
When encouraging physical activity in seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, safety is crucial, especially as their needs and abilities change. Assessing the space to ensure it’s clear of obstacles before beginning activities and ensuring seniors are wearing appropriate clothing and footwear are just a few ways to ensure their safety. Alzheimer’s home care can help families understand these practices and give tips for improvement.
Maintaining a loved one’s physical health even while they deal with the changes that Alzheimer’s disease brings is an important part of their care. With support, patience, and the right resources—such as Alzheimer’s home care—seniors can enjoy physical activity and keep their bodies in good shape despite the changes they encounter due to the disease.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Home Care in La Jolla, CA, please contact the caring staff at A Caring Touch Home Care today. Call (619) 344-0528
A Caring Touch Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency providing exceptional home care in Coronado, Del Mar/Del Mar Heights, Bonita, East Lake, La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Mt. Helix/La Mesa, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Carmel Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos, Point Loma, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and surrounding areas.
Sources:
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-activities-and-exercise
- https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/exercise
- https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-caregiving/adapting-activities-people-alzheimers-disease
- https://www.alz.org/help-support/brain_health/stay_physically_active
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