ADVERTISEMENT
Research has supported exercise as having the potential to keep dementia at bay or at least to impede its progression. A recent study suggests that physical activity may not be as effective at warding off cognitive decline as previously thought.
In this study, published in BMJ (2018; 361, k1675), 329 individuals were assigned to an exercise intervention, while 165 subjects received “usual care.” Average age was 77, and each participant had a clinically confirmed dementia diagnosis.
Those in the exercise group completed two 60- to 90-minute supervised training sessions each week for 4 months; they were asked to exercise for an hour on their own, as well. Supervised sessions included a 5-minute cycling warmup followed by 25 minutes of moderate- to high-intensity cycling. Exercisers also completed a strength training program that featured dumbbell biceps curls, shoulder forward raises, lateral raise or press exercises, and sit-to-stand training exercises using a sit-to-stand weighted vest or a waist belt. Each individual’s strength program was tailored to his or her physical ability; not all participants completed all exercises.
Upon study completion, the exercise group was able to lift more weight, and their high-intensity cardiovascular-activity duration and walking speed had improved. Unfortunately, changes were purely physical. At a 12-month follow-up, cognitive impairment had worsened in both groups, and the decline was slightly greater in exercisers, though the average difference was small enough to make its clinical relevance uncertain.
Bottom line: An exercise intervention did not slow mental decline in dementia patients in this study.
When you buy something using the retail links in our content, we may earn a small commission. IDEA Health and Fitness Association does not accept money for editorial reviews. Read more about our Terms & Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Articles
Gait Retraining May Reduce Risk of “Runner’s Knee”
Intermittent Fasting
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Stay up tp date with our latest news and products.