How Exercise Improves Dementia
Prevention and Risk Reduction:
Regular physical activity can be is associated with a reduced risk of developing dementia. A systematic review found that the risk of Dementia and Alzhiemer’s Disease can be lowered by 28% and 45% respectively, with physical activity.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7113559/
Hamer M., Chida Y. (2009). Physical activity and risk of neurodegenerative disease: a systematic review of prospective evidence. Psychol. Med. 39 3–11. 10.1017/S0033291708003681 [PubMed] [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
Cognitive Function and Slowing Progression:
Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function in older adults, including those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that adults with subjective memory impairment, a 6-month program of physical activity provided a modest improvement in cognition over an 18-month follow-up period (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/182502)
While another study demonstrated that with high-intensity intervallic functional training (HIFT) 3 times per week over a 12 week period, beneficial effects on general cognition, attention, executive functions and verbal fluency was shown. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10299582/
Mechanisms:
Exercise promotes brain health by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and stimulating the release of growth factors that support the survival and growth of neurons. It also enhances neuroplasticity, helping the brain form new neural connections.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6296262/
Psychological and Behavioural Benefits:
Regular exercise can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are common in individuals with dementia. It may also help reduce behavioural symptoms of dementia, such as agitation and wandering.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5518961/
Types of Exercise Programs:
Aerobic Exercise: Activities like walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling have been particularly effective.
Strength Training: Resistance training helps maintain muscle mass and overall physical health.
Combination Programs: Programs combining aerobic and strength training exercises offer comprehensive benefits.
The evidence strongly supports the role of regular physical exercise in reducing the risk of dementia, improving cognitive function, and slowing the disease's progression. Exercise programs should be tailored to individual capabilities and preferences for maximum benefit.
References:
1) Journal of Alzheimer's Disease: Link to Meta-Analysis
2) Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA): Link to Study
3) Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews: Link to Systematic Review
4) Relationship Between Exercise and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Narrative Literature Review: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7113559/