Observing the Impact of Exercise on Dementia: Challenges and Benefits in Daily Functioning

Abstract

Dementia impact more than 55 million people all over the world, posing a growing public health concern. Traditional treatment has focused on medication to slow cognitive decline, but exercise has emerged as a complementary therapy. Existing literature identifies aerobic, resistance, and balance training as beneficial for improving neuroplasticity and physical function. However, many programs face hurdles in consistency and personalization. The study focused to find the impact of structured exercise programs on the daily functioning of dementia patients, identify common challenges in implementation, and assess strategies that were used to optimize outcomes. An observational study was conducted using standardized functional assessment and therapist observation. The study assessed the changes in cognitive function, mobility, and independence. This study found that most older adults with dementia exhibited severe cognitive impairment and low physical activity levels. A prominant linking was noticed between physical activity and cognitive function, highlighting the benefits of exercise in dementia care. Despite limitations like small sample size and cross-sectional design, the research emphasizes the need for structured interventions. It provides a valuable foundation for future studies and public health strategies in low-resource settings like Pakistan.