The Benefits of Exercise for Seniors With Dementia

Physical activity is beneficial for everyone. But for older adults and their caregivers struggling with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia diagnoses, physical activity is especially important. 

Physical activities and exercise can provide excellent, non-drug ways to improve well-being and reduce challenging behaviors in seniors. Staying active improves sleep, strength, flexibility, and circulation. It’s also an effective way to reduce fall risk and can reduce pain. Plus, it’s a great way to boost mood and self-esteem. All these benefits work to reduce and manage challenging behaviors like agitation, sundowning, disrupted sleep, and more. 

But physical activity can be hard to prioritize. The key to keeping exercise part of a daily routine is to keep it simple and safe for each individual’s ability level, while focusing on enjoyment.

Instead of framing activities as "exercise," try integrating them into daily tasks — or make them fun activities like a dance party. Joining in yourself is beneficial since many with dementia struggle to initiate activities and remember sequences. When you are part of the activity, you can help demonstrate movements, adjust the pace, and offer assistance as needed, making it more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone. 

While it may at first seem like an inconvenient addition to an already busy schedule, exercising with your loved ones can reduce difficult behaviors, alleviate sundowning symptoms — while promoting your own physical well-being!

Here are some physical activity ideas for seniors with dementia to help you get started —

Gentle Activities

1. Go for a walk! Walking is one of the best exercises around — and it’s free! Walking around the house, the yard, or outside for any amount of time is wonderful for both body and mind. You can even combine the walk by doing an errand together like walking the dog or going to the grocery store.

2. Check out the sit to stand exercise, which strengthens muscles needed for essential activities like using the toilet.

3. Practice maintaining standing balance (using support if necessary) to enhance balance and posture. This can be incorporated into daily tasks like dishwashing.

4. Spend a few minutes sitting without support each day (with supervision to prevent falls) to strengthen core muscles and improve posture.

5. Perform gentle stretches while lying in bed to loosen stiff muscles. Assistance may be needed, or it can be done independently.

Moderate Activities

1. Add stretches and/or strength exercises. Here’s a simple chair stretching routine, and here’s an easy strength and balance routine.

2. Try out tai chi with these routines that can be adapted for a variety of physical conditions. For those who prefer to remain seated, try this seated tai chi routine instead.

3. Get out and garden! Even something as simple as gentle raking or pulling weeds gives a sense of accomplishment and is a great workout.

4. Stay in and clean! Basic household chores can be great exercise as well, such as folding laundry, dusting, or light vacuuming.

If your loved one with dementia requires extra support, we're available to assist. Please call Overture Home Care 24/7 at (817) 887-9401 or (214) 887-9401 to schedule a free assessment. 

Physical Activities for Seniors with Dementia: 12 Exercise Ideas by DailyCaring