Every year that goes by, more information is released about what can be done to prevent it dementia or treat it, as well as information on possible cures.
One recent study has concluded that fitness can help reduce the symptoms of dementia. The study reported a 30% increase in mental ability over a one-year time frame.
About 50 million people in the world have dementia. More than half of the cases are Alzheimer’s disease. Every year another 9.9 million people are added to this total. With such staggering numbers, finding any sort of cure or treatment has become paramount for researchers.
How Does Exercising Help People With Dementia?
Exercise reduces the risk of getting dementia by reducing the chance of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, both of which are risk factors for dementia. When a person exercises, the brain increases the amount of a brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This is a very powerful thing for brain cells. It can assist in forming new brain cells, new pathways, and new connections, all of which those with dementia have fewer of than those without the disease.
If you do cardiovascular exercise and brain challenges, like puzzles, the result can be quite beneficial. The key is to exercise the brain so that new neuro pathways are formed and/or maintained. While there’s no cure yet for the disease, there are ways to help prevent it from getting worse, although none of them are guaranteed, unfortunately.
Besides adding cells and pathways, exercising increases blood flow to the brain by increasing the heart rate. The additional blood can help nourish and replenish. It can also increase the overall volume of the brain, which is normally less than average in those with dementia.
Researchers suggest that exercise needs to be of moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes, in order to properly stimulate the brain. Exercises must then be done at least four to five times a week. The more you can keep the brain active, the more benefits one may see. Some studies, however, showed no effects or even negative effects in some people, but the overall amount was smaller and there could have been other contributing factors that affected the results. It was concluded that those with the disease that exercised showed an increase in brain activity and function.
Conclusion
Studies are happening all the time to try and find new and innovative ways to treat or cure dementia. With constant research, it’s possible to find a viable treatment in the near future, and possibly even a cure.
Bonaventure Senior Living
At Bonaventure Senior Living, we have Retirement Perfected, Living Perfected, Dining Perfected, and Fitness Perfected. The best way to see for yourself is to Book-A-Tour today and discover how you can live life on your own terms. We specialize in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, that way, no matter what your current situation is, we have all levels of care covered if your needs ever change.
Independent Living
With Independent Living, we want you to enjoy Simplified Living, allowing you to have the freedom to do what makes you happy. Our Independent Living is designed to accommodate the exceptional senior lifestyle that you’ve earned. What’s even better, is that with Independent Living we offer whatever supportive services that you may need at any time you may need them. Now that’s Retirement Perfected.
Assisted Living
Assisted Living at Bonaventure Senior Living is simple: all the lifestyle benefits of our Independent Living, but with any extra support that you may need. Our philosophy is based on three simple things: choice, independence, and dignity. Now that’s Assisted Living at its finest.
Memory Care
Every senior is a unique person, and our Memory Care approach is no different. We tailor our Memory Care by connecting with family members and taking time to understand each person’s specific circumstances. This includes mental, emotional, and physical health. Our Memory Care creates an honorable and professional plan to make sure that each person lives their life to the fullest. That’s the way Memory Care should be.
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