The importance of exercise in preventing and managing Alzheimer’s disease should not be underestimated. Alzheimer’s disease also referred to as Alzheimer’s is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and progresses over time. It is the cause of 60%-70% of cases of dementia (Wikipedia). Risk factors include, genetics, head injuries, depression and hypertension.
Exercise has many known benefits, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, strengthening bones and muscles and reducing stress. It also appears that regular physical activity benefits the brain. Studies show that people that are physically active are less likely to experience a decline in their mental function and have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Physical activity seems to help our brains by keeping the blood flowing and by increasing chemicals that protect the brain. Physical activity also tends to counter some of the natural reduction in brain connections that occurs with age (Graff- Radford).
There are a number of things that should be considered with respect to Alzheimer’s disease. The first is prevention. There is plenty of evidence that supports the fact that a healthy lifestyle and exercise can reduce the chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease. The second aspect is the importance of exercise in slowing the progression of the disease.
There are numerous studies that suggest that exercise may be the only answer. Keeping active can slow down the progression of memory loss in people with Alzheimer’s disease a University of Nottingham study has shown. Medical researchers have identified a stress hormone produced during moderate exercise that may protect the brain from memory changes related to the disease (ScienceDaily).
Cardiovascular, resistance and flexibility exercises should be considered for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Special consideration with respect to program design should be taken into account on an individual basis. Age, stage of the disease, other health problems and experience exercising should be considered when designing the exercise program. Resistance training exercises are recommended provided the participant is able to do so in a safe manner (has the ability to hold the weights without dropping them). Resistance training will provide the highest increase in blood flow. Increasing blood flow to the brain is an important part of slowing the progression of the disease. Many seniors in this situation have osteoporosis. Special attention to exercises that will help osteoporosis patients is paramount.
Exercise and healthy eating are the best ways to avoid and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
References: Wikapedia, Mayo Clinic, Graff- Radford J., ScienceDaily.