The Effects Of Exercise On Dementia

July 22, 2022 3 min read

As we age, training and exercise tend to become less of a priority. We become less mobile, and after 60, our metabolism starts to slow down. The risks of illnesses and ailments become greater as our immune system changes. Dementia is one of the things that can be most concerning. Dementia is an umbrella of progressive changes in the brains chemistry, leading to neurons in the brain no longer working correctly effecting memory, cognitive function and spatial awareness.

But what if we could slow down that process and have more energy? Preserve our mental acuity? Have more time with those we love? And a better standard of living? Well, regular training and exercise, have been scientifically proven to help. Regular training and exercise helps spatial memory and awareness, improves cognitive function and slows down the loss of grey matter through the brain as it ages. If we start exercising and training through our mid-life, we can also cut risk factors for any Dementia down considerably, as well as reducing risk factors for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Training is also a great way to bond with other people or family, which can greatly improve our emotional wellbeing, as well as fostering new relationships too.

Physical exercise doesn’t have to be overly complicated for its benefits to become apparent. It could start with something as simple as going for a walk to the shops or run round the park, a light physical programme or resistance programme with a coach can also be an option. Exercise and physical training in general can also help with social skills and emotional wellbeing, meaning feeling psychologically and emotionally fitter and more healthy.

Each generation is starting to live longer and longer, and to a healthier standard. This means training can be done long into our later years to keep us strong, active and mobile. Training this way doesn’t have to be started later on in life either. We can start from a young, or middle age. It’s never too late to start, or to keep being, physically active.

Increasing our mobility and flexibility would be good places to start later in life. Using good form with bodyweight repetitions to make sure good form is present and injury risk lowered from the outset is extremely important.

I have a few older clients I work with, and I always start right from the ground up, promoting proper form and engagement, especially if it has been a while since they have done any exercise! But the social interaction and seeing the result make the journey so worthwhile.

We can set a great example for future generations by embracing exercise and resistance training throughout our lives, to help them push further work harder and foster a wonderful intergenerational bonding experience.

I’ve listed an example workout you can use to get yourself started and see if training is for you, as you get older!

BW Lunge L > Squat > Lunge R x 12
Shoulder Raise (Light Weight or Res.Band) x 12
Bicep Curl (Light Weight or Res.Band) x 12
Tricep Extension (Light Weight or Res.Band) x 12
Hip Hinge (Light Weight or Res.Band) x 12

Repeat 2-4 times – plenty of rest and good form, and motor control are a must!

We have plenty of products at all different weights on the Gravity Fitness store to help you make the most of your training and fitness. Just check out the STORE HERE and show us how you’re getting on with your fitness journey, regardless of your age!