Improvement of cognitive function after physical movement training in institutionalized very frail older adults with dementia

Abstract

It is known that physical exercise improves cognitive functioning in older adults who can still walk (if necessary, with assistance). We investigated whether a physical fitness program conducted while sitting has similar benefits for demented and physically very frail seniors. Results show that participants in the fitness program showed no further cognitive decline and even an improvement in orientation/praxis, while a waiting list control group exhibited further cognitive deterioration. Thus, even physically very frail dementia patients can benefit from a non-demanding physical fitness program.