Keeping mobile

It is important to encourage people to exercise regularly and to be active in doing things for themselves, as far as possible, in order to stay fit.
This will not only improve their quality of life, it will make caring less tiring for you.
Walking and other forms of movement will help to prevent joint stiffness, muscle wasting and bone softening as well as improving the circulation and promoting a general feeling of well-being.
As the dementia progresses, you may need to use more imagination to get the person to exercise and remain active and you may need to give increasing assistance in moving around.
An occupational therapist (OT) or physiotherapist can advise on suitable exercises for people at all stages of dementia and on the safest ways of supporting the person to move around. Ask the doctor or clinic staff to refer the person to an OT or physiotherapist.