Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Keeping active helps our general fitness, muscle control and coordination, and contributes to a sense of wellbeing. It is also essential for maintaining blood flow to the brain and may stimulate brain cell growth and survival.
Therefore, exercise is good both for your body and your brain. However, before you start any exercise programme do talk to your doctor, particularly if you have any other other illnesses or physical challenges or disabilities.
The most important thing is to choose activities you enjoy and stick with them. Some suggestions include:
- gardening
- walking
- swimming
- water aerobics
- yoga
- Tai Chi
Benefits of exercise
Exercise has been found to have a number of benefits, which means we should all stay as active as possible for as long as possible. It can:
- prevent muscle weakness
- help with mobility problems and other health complications associated with inactivity
- help promote a normal day-night routine so you sleep better
- improve mood and increase social participation
- reduce stress and depression, which can be experienced by people with dementia.
Tips for exercise:
- always warm up before beginning your exercise routine and cool down at the end
- start with shorter sessions and work your way up
- try water exercise, such as swimming or aqua aerobics, as these are often easier on the joints and take less balance
- if you’re anxious about making decisions or remembering what to do next, try walking on a treadmill or using an exercycle
- if you have difficulty maintaining your balance, exercise within reach of a rail or something to grab onto.
If at any time you feel sick or you begin to hurt, STOP the activity and ask your doctor or another health professional for advice.
For more information and advice, see the Ministry of Health website.