The Department of Health recommends that we’re all engaged in some kind of physical activity every day (with a minimum of two and a half hours of moderate activity per week). This can be more challenging for a person with dementia, as mood and energy levels can vary, but even a small amount of regular exercise will help.
The mental health benefits of being active
Whether it’s taking regular exercise or pursuing a hobby (or both), an active lifestyle will help to:
Boost confidence and self-esteem
Give a sense of purpose
Improve mood and reduce the risk of anxiety and depression
Provide a sense of identity, beyond that as someone who has dementia
The physical health benefits of being active
Improves heart health, reducing the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease
Improves bone and muscle strength, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and falls
Improves balance and coordination, which can both be affected in a person with dementia
Improves blood supply to the brain, which will help the person be more alert
Reduces the risk of stroke and certain cancers
Ideas for keeping active indoors
If the person doesn’t want to venture out but you want to keep them active, there are various things they can do at home to keep them on the move:
Light housework, such as dusting
Marching on the spot or dancing to music
Walking up and down the stairs
Standing up from their chair every hour and stretching
Keeping up hobbies
If the person has been active all their life encourage them to keep pursuing their favourite sport or hobby if they have one. If not, they may be open to going out for walks at first or joining a local exercise class. Look online to find out what groups or activities are available in your area here.
Getting out in the fresh air can make a person feel happier. It’s also better for their physical health than sitting down all day. Regular walks or stretches, even simply standing up and moving around the room every hour or two, will help with the person's overall wellbeing.
Other mood boosters
Arts and crafts – painting, drawing, knitting, beading. Find more ideas here <Link to
arts activities>
Music – listening to music, singing and dancing can all improve the person’s mood
Baking – can be enjoyable and rewarding, and might be something you can do together
Visiting garden centres – looking at plants and flowers can improve mood and stimulate the brain
You can find more ideas for hobbies and interests that are great for someone living with dementia here