| Keywords |
Dementia ; Cognitive function ; Fall-related fitness ; Rubber band exercise |
| Abstract |
The serious health, social and economic consequences of falls are well documented. Balance dysfunction and falls are common problems in later stages of dementia. Physical activity may be associated with better cognition and can improve balance and decrease the risk of falling of elderly. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a in-facility exercise program on fall-related fitness (FRF) and cognitive function (CF) in elderly with mild to moderate severity dementia. The subjects were consisted of 40 institutionalized elderly people who were over 70 years old {exercise group (EG=20), control group (CG=20)}. A series of clinical measures were used to evaluate FRF and CF at baseline. CF was measured using Mini-Mental State Examination. FRF was measured by balance and lower body strength. The exercise program is standing-walking and elastic rubber band exercise, 30-60 min. a day, 2 times per week for 12 weeks. CF improved post exercise program, but not significant (p>.05). Change in balance (Berg balance scale, p<.001) was significant. Timed up and go (19%, p<.05) and chair rise time (23%, p<.01) were also improved. In conclusion, although cognitive function did not improve significantly, the standing-walking and rubber-band exercise program may reduce fall of the patient with dementia by improving balance and leg muscle strength. |