As some of the risk factors for AD involve low levels of physical activity, regular exercise can help prevent or delay the progression of AD. Exercise helps to reduce levels of beta amyloid which is a protein which forms plaques on the brain which is a main cause of AD. Exercise also increases testosterone levels (particularly strength training) which helps to preserve cognitive function. Engaging with exercise has many positive benefits for people with AD such as:
Slowing the progression of AD
Increased blood flow to the brain to stimulate growth of new brain cells.
Improved cognitive function and memory by increasing the size of the part of the brain associated with memory formation (hippocampus).
Improving mood, anxiety and depression which are common with people with AD.
Slowing muscle wasting associated with AD.
Reducing behavioural problems with advanced stages of the disease.
Improving overall quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and dementia are neurodegenerative diseases which causes a loss of memory, cognitive and physical function. Dementia is an overall term to describe an impairment in brain function which interferes with daily function, with AD being the most common cause of dementia. Australia’s rates of AD are increasing with its ageing population. Lifestyle factors such as reduced physical activity, obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.
Exercise Prescription for Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia
It is recommended people with AD and dementia engage in 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week. This can be broken up through the day if needed into 10-minute bouts. The goal of exercise is to increase muscle mass and strength, increase testosterone levels and reduce risk factors of cardiovascular disease therefore it should include:
Aerobic exercise to reduce cardiovascular risk factors and stimulate blood flow to the brain.
Resistance training performed targeting major muscle groups at least 2 times weekly to increase strength, prevent muscle wasting and promote testosterone release. These can be done in a seated or standing position depending on ability.
Flexibility exercises to help maintain mobility.
Socially engaging and interactive environments to help preser
ve cognitive function.
How can we help?
Whether you are looking at becoming more active to help prevent AD or already have AD and are looking to slow its progression our Exercise Physiologists can help to develop a safe and effective individualised program. Exercise sessions can vary from higher intensity exercise to gentle seated exercises depending on your ability and function with all forms having benefits for those with AD.
One on one exercise sessions are important for people with Alzheimer’s disease to allow close supervision to ensure safely, correct technique and counting repetitions.
If you are looking to start getting more active and help prevent AD our active ageing group classes may be a good fit for you.
Give us a call of 42590384 or visit www.prescribeexercise.com.au/ if you have ready to book in a see one of our Accredited Exercise Physiologists.
CONTACT US
Tel. (02) 4259 0384 126 Church St, Wollongong, NSW, 2500
14 Churchill Ave, Warrawong, Entry Via Mowbray Lane
Post Created By Emma - Accredited Exercise Physiologist.
Prescribe Exercise are your local exercise physiology specialists. We provide exercise rehabilitation to assist manage and prevent injury and chronic disease in the Wollongong and Illawarra area. Our programs will assist to achieve personal excellence, we do this by taking the time to educate and empower you with the highest quality care and exercise best practice available. We genuinely care for our clients and want to make a difference in your life, we will help you to get better and stay better so that you can regain control of your health once again.
Want to book in for Exercise Physiology Wollongong, head on over to our online bookings CLICK HERE