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Exercise interventions for dementia and cognitive impairment: the Seattle Protocols.
L Teri1, R G Logsdon, S M McCurry
1University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA. lteri@u.washington.edu
The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging
|June 13, 2008
Summary
Regular physical exercise can enhance physical function, mood, and slow cognitive decline in older adults. The Seattle Protocols offer evidence-based strategies to make exercise enjoyable and sustainable for individuals with cognitive impairments.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Physical exercise is linked to improved physical function, mood, and slowed cognitive decline in older adults.
- Cognitive impairment, including dementia and mild cognitive impairment, presents challenges to maintaining physical activity.
- Existing interventions may not adequately address the unique needs of individuals with cognitive decline regarding exercise adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe evidence-based interventions designed to increase physical activity in individuals with dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
- To introduce the Seattle Protocols, a systematic approach to promoting exercise in cognitively impaired populations.
- To highlight the unique features of the Seattle Protocols, focusing on pleasant exercise and behavioral strategies.
Main Methods:
- Development of interventions grounded in social-learning and gerontological theory.
- Incorporation of strategies to make exercise a pleasant experience.
- Training for both participants and caregivers in behavioral and problem-solving techniques for exercise adherence.
- Randomized controlled clinical trials to assess feasibility and benefits.
Main Results:
- Initial findings from randomized controlled trials are promising.
- The Seattle Protocols appear to be feasible for community-residing individuals.
- The interventions suggest potential benefits for individuals with a range of cognitive abilities and impairments.
Conclusions:
- The Seattle Protocols offer a unique, evidence-based approach to increasing physical activity in individuals with cognitive impairment.
- Making exercise pleasant and teaching behavioral strategies are key components for success.
- Further research is needed, but initial results indicate the protocols' potential efficacy and applicability.
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