Dementia Care – Atkins Health Active Alzheimer’s Program

Improved cognitive function: Regular physical activity has been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, which can help to improve memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities. In addition, exercise has been shown to stimulate the production of chemicals in the brain that are responsible for improving mood, reducing stress, and increasing feelings of well-being. 

Improved physical function in individuals with dementia: As the disease progresses, many individuals with dementia experience declines in physical abilities such as balance, coordination, and mobility. Exercise has been shown to help improve these physical abilities, reducing the risk of falls and improving the ability to perform everyday tasks. 

Physical Benefits: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and help to maintain a healthy weight. 

• Individuals who are newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia  
• Those who seek to keep their independence at home – and wish to continue to do so
• Those who wish to use half-day respite care and receive therapy at the same time 

1. Aerobic exercise: This type of exercise helps to increase heart rate and improve cardiovascular function. Aerobic activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming can help to improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

2. Strength training: Resistance exercise can help to improve muscle strength, balance, and coordination. Activities such as weightlifting, resistance band exercises, or chair exercises can be used to target specific muscle groups. 

3. Balance exercises: These exercises can help to improve balance, reduce the risk of falls, and improve physical function. Balance exercises can include simple activities such as standing on one foot, walking heel-to-toe, or tai chi. 

4. Cognitive stimulation: These exercises help to improve cognitive function and delay the progression of dementia. Cognitive stimulation activities can include Memory games: Simple memory games such as concentration, where cards with matching pairs are laid face down and the goal is to match pairs, or memory matching, where objects are laid out and the goal is to remember their location, can help improve memory and concentration.

• • Word games: Word games such as crossword puzzles, Scrabble, or Boggle can help to improve language and cognitive function. 
  • Visual perception games: These games challenge visual perception and spatial awareness skills. Examples include jigsaw puzzles, Tangrams, or mazes. 
  • Numbers games: Games that involve numbers, such as Sudoku or KenKen, can help improve mathematical and logical reasoning skills. 

1. • Strategy games: Games that require strategy, such as chess or checkers, can help improve planning and problem-solving skills.

5. Dance and movement: This type of exercise combines physical activity with social interaction and can be enjoyable for individuals with dementia. Dance and movement activities can include line dancing, ballroom dancing, or movement classes. 

It’s important to keep in mind that individuals with dementia may have different physical and cognitive abilities, so it’s important to tailor the exercise program to their specific needs and abilities. A physical therapist or occupational therapist can help to design a safe and effective exercise program for dementia care. 

• Available at a variety of our Gold Coast locations
• Suitable for people who are not in residential care
• Both individual and group classes available
• Guided by an exercise physiologist with special interests in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
• Regular reporting available for family/carers on participant’s progress