Exercise supports muscle strength, healthy weight, good sleep, and mental wellness, all important for people living with dementia.
Tips to Stay Active
- Exercise together for motivation.
- Break activity into short, 10-minute sessions.
- Add music to routines if your loved one enjoys it.
- Use clear, simple instructions.
- Make sure they wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
- Keep water or juice on hand for hydration.
- Ensure they wear an ID bracelet during walks.
Ideas for Limited Mobility
- Do simple household chores like dusting.
- Ride a stationary bike.
- Toss soft exercise balls or balloons.
- Use resistance bands.
- Lift light weights or items like soup cans.
Top Tip: There is almost always some form of exercise an individual with dementia can do. Those in the early stages may be able to dance or do basic gym routines, while others may be restricted to chair yoga. It is really about finding a safe activity suited to each individual. If they wander as part of sundowning, let’s create a way for them to wander safely at that time.
FAQs
What’s the best kind of exercise for somebody with dementia?
Simple, familiar activities they enjoy. Consistency matters more than intensity.
What if they resist exercising?
Make it fun. Add music or try to turn it into a shared activity.
Is it safe to exercise daily?
Yes, as long as it’s light and adapted to their needs.
Want to Learn More?
We hope this tip helps you on your caregiver journey. To learn more, visit our guides to dementia and Alzheimer’s and memory care. These articles are a great place to start learning about this disease and what care looks like in a memory care community.
For more answers to quick common questions, visit our FAQ page.
You can also check out our upcoming events for caregiver education and support.