Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease in which the person afflicted with the condition slowly loses brain cells and his brain shrinks, diminishing his abilities to communicate, create, and recall memories, and process information. This change in the brain, which controls every aspect of the body, then affects the person in all areas of his health, not only his cognitive health. To help your loved one stay aware and retain as much of his independence for as long as he can as he lives with this disease, regular exercise is important, and assistance from an Alzheimer’s care provider can help him follow through with his routine.

Alzheimer’s Care Kingsburg CA – Exercise for Ones with Alzheimer’s Disease

Health Benefits of Regular Exercise

Just like everyone else, regular daily exercise has numerous health benefits for those with Alzheimer’s disease. Getting that exercise should be a consistent part of their Alzheimer’s care program. While the activities your loved one does and the length of time he’s physically active may be different than a person without Alzheimer’s disease, his benefits remain consistent.

A reduction in his risk of developing other health conditions, such as diabetes, muscle atrophy, or stroke.

Improved balance and coordination. Keeping active can prevent more falls than it might lead to.

Better eye-hand coordination. This can help your loved one keep his independence as far as feeding himself and dressing himself for a longer period while the disease progresses.

Improved sleep patterns. Many Alzheimer’s patients struggle with sundowning, a condition in which their sleep patterns become disrupted and they are awake at night. Regular exercise, especially if it is outside during the day, can help regulate his sleep patterns and allow him to sleep better.

A slowdown of cognitive decline. Exercise keeps the brain active as well as the body, helping it get a needed workout each day and possibly slowing down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Tips for Keeping Your Loved One Active

While each person will be different, and it’s important to consult with your loved one’s doctor about how to best incorporate regular exercise into your loved one’s day.

Here are a few ways you and their Alzheimer’s care aide can work with your loved one to help him participate and enjoy regular daily activities.

Exercise doesn’t have to be sport-based. While many think of playing a sport, riding a bike, or even swimming as exercise, exercise can also come in the form of household chores, walking through a shopping center, and dancing in the living room. Be creative and keep the exercise simple.

Enlist someone to exercise with your loved one. Sometimes Alzheimer’s patients need someone to help them get started. An Alzheimer’s care provider can help by being the person who helps get your loved one moving each day.

Keep exercise time short. Your loved one may only be able to dance around the living room for five or ten minutes, but if he can do that two or three times a day, he can still get the benefits of regular exercise.

Keep it routine. If your loved one seems more excited to exercise in the morning, make it part of his morning routine. If he’s more willing to exercise with his Alzheimer’s care provider, ensure that’s part of each visit.

Be patient and understanding. Some days, your loved one may not want to cooperate. Be willing to walk away from the activity and try again at a later time or day.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Care Services in Kingsburg, CA, please get in touch with the caring staff at Everlight Home Care today. Call us at 559-353-2847.

Private Duty Home Care in Fresno, Madera, Kern Counties, and surrounding communities. Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Gina Kendall

Gina Kendall has over 25 years of work experience serving the aging and the disabled. Her extensive experience in care and management began as a Social Services Coordinator in skilled nursing facilities. While working in this capacity, she became aware of the need for, and the importance of, good, quality, home care. Gina worked with families to keep their loved ones home and avoid a return visit to the hospital. As she continued her career of service, she began working with the disabled population helping to expand and improve their independence throughout all aspects of life.

This combination of experiences has afforded Gina a unique view of the needs of the aging and the disabled and how to best serve those needs in a home setting.

Gina’s Central Valley roots run deep. She earned her BA degree from Fresno State in 1993 and has lived and worked in Fresno for the past 20 years. In addition to raising her family in Fresno, she is actively involved in her local church and is a volunteer for various local community organizations.

Latest posts by Gina Kendall (see all)

• Join Everlight Care at the 2025 Wellness Expo - May 15, 2025
• Health Benefits of Regular Exercise for Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s Disease - May 15, 2025
• Overnight Care Helps Seniors Aging In Place Feel Safe At Night - May 1, 2025