The greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia is aging. Although aging and genetics cannot be prevented, a growing body of research evidence exists that identifies 12 potentially modifiable risk factors. Physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, air pollution, head injury, infrequent social contact, less education, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, depression and hearing impairment are the 12 modifiable risk factors.
It is estimated that 40% of all dementia cases may be the result of these modifiable risk factors.
Most of the risk factors can be modified through regular physical activity, which generally leads to a healthier lifestyle and the efficient management of chronic diseases.
Move for a Healthy Mind aims to reintroduce physical activity to autonomous people aged 55 and over who are physically inactive or not very active.
The program offers a variety of physical activities such as yoga, mobility exercises and stretching exercises. The diversity of exercise makes the experience enjoyable for seniors and enables them to live a more active lifestyle without feeling that they must make a drastic change in their daily routine.
The exercises can be modified according to each participant’s physical condition. The exercises are varied, ensuring that participants don’t get bored or return to inactivity. The exercise provides guidance for ongoing physical activities.
Video
To keep participants active after their time in the program has ended, Hope for Dementia has created a video, which is only a click away. Click on the link below and follow along with the instructor.
How to fit physical activity in your daily life
- Schedule 20 minutes of exercise per day in your calendar.
- Try exercising early in the morning before you get busy.
- Create accountability partner by committing to exercise with someone else.
- Most importantly, choose an exercise that you really enjoy.
- Do a workout at home.
- When you go shopping, park at the far end of the parking lot and walk briskly to the shops.
- Think about whether you need the car, or whether you could walk or ride your bike instead.
- When you go get the mail, take the opportunity to take a 3-minute walk
- When you go empty the trash go for a 5-minute walk
- Get off the bus one or two stops earlier than usual and walk the rest of the way. While waiting in line, balance on one foot for a few seconds, then the other.
- While talking on the phone, stand up and do a few leg raises.
- When you brush your teeth, do 10 squats.
- While watching television pedal on a stationary bike.
Being active provides benefits for your mind, body and wellness
Benefits for your mind
- Boost your concentration and alertness
- Reduce your risk of cognitive impairment as you age
Benefits for your body
- Make your bones and muscles stronger
- Helps you improve your cholesterol
- Lowers your blood pressure
- Improves your immunity
- Reduces your risk of heart attack
- Helps you manage your weight
- Helps you sleep better
Benefits for your wellness
- Improves your mood and help gives you a positive outlook on life
Makes you happier and healthier
