German Study Shows Benefits of Exercise for People with Dementia, Caregivers

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The benefits of daily exercise for both people with dementia and their caregivers is the focus of a new study recently published by researchers in Germany.

The study, conducted by researchers at German Sport University Cologne and the LVR-Hospital in Cologne, found that people who participated in short-bout exercise sessions of 20 minutes several times per day showed significant improvements in neuropsychiatric symptoms like depression and anxiety. Additionally, as symptoms improved, the study also showed a lessened burden on caregivers.

The findings add to a growing body of research surrounding the link between exercise and conditions that cause dementia. A study published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia in January showed a physically and mentally active lifestyle could help slow the progression of FTD, even in people who are genetically predisposed to the disease.

While both studies provide hope for individuals and families facing dementia, the findings are preliminary. Researchers plan to conduct future studies to continue to look for a more definitive link between lifestyle changes and dementia.

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