Exercising your body and mind is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle, and it is especially important for those with dementia. Exercise can help engage the brain and support treatment, and many simple exercises can be done to help with this. 

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a group of symptoms that are caused by changes in the brain. It can affect memory, thinking, language, judgment, and behaviour. It is estimated that over 50 million people worldwide are living with dementia, and the number is expected to triple by 2050. 

Benefits of Exercise

Exercise can help improve physical and mental health for those with dementia. It can help improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, as well as reduce the risk of falls and fractures. Exercise can also help with cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving. 

Types of Exercises

Many types of exercises can be done to help with dementia. These include:

1. Walking: Taking a walk is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the outdoors.
2. Swimming: Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can help improve balance and coordination.
3. Yoga: Yoga can help with relaxation, concentration, and flexibility.
4. Dancing: Dancing is a fun way to get some exercise and can help with coordination and balance.

Tips for Exercise

When exercising with dementia, it is important to keep a few things in mind:

1. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of the exercise.
2. Make sure to take frequent breaks.
3. Have someone accompany you to help with balance and safety.
4. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
5. Drink plenty of water.

Resources

There are many resources available to help those with dementia and their families. Organizations such as the [Alzheimer’s Association](https://www.alz.org/) and the [National Institute on Aging](https://www.nia.nih.gov/) provide information and support for those living with dementia.

Additionally, there are many online resources available that provide exercise programs specifically designed for those with dementia, such as [Dementia Exercise](https://www.dementia-exercise.org/). 

Conclusion

Exercising your body and mind is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle, and it is especially important for those with dementia. Exercise can help engage the brain and support treatment, and many simple exercises can be done to help with this.

From walking to swimming and yoga to dancing, many types of exercises can be done to help with dementia. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of the exercise, take frequent breaks, have someone accompany you, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and drink plenty of water.