Effect of a 36-Week Supervised Exercise Training Program on Physical and Cognitive Function in Older Patients With...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neurology
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Dementia significantly impacts physical and cognitive functions in the elderly.
• Maintaining functional independence is crucial for quality of life in aging populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a structured exercise training program on physical and cognitive function in older patients with dementia.
• To assess the impact of exercise on daily living functionality and depression symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A 36-week structured exercise program was implemented in an Intervention Group (IG) of 19 dementia patients.
• A Control Group (CG) of 19 dementia patients received usual medical care.
• Cognitive function (MMSE), depression (GDS), physical function (handgrip, TUG, BBS, CST), and daily living (FRSSD) were assessed pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Participants in the IG showed significant improvements across all assessed functional and cognitive metrics compared to the CG.
• Exercise intervention led to statistically significant enhancements in physical performance and cognitive scores (p<0.001).

Conclusions:

• A 36-week supervised exercise training program significantly improves physical and cognitive function in elderly patients with early to middle-stage dementia.
• The study highlights the adaptability and feasibility of long-term exercise programs for this clinical population.
• Exercise interventions show promise for enhancing the well-being and functional capacity of individuals with dementia.