The effects of exercise on depressive symptoms of individuals with dementia: A pilot study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5055/ajrt.2016.0116Keywords:
dementia, Alzheimer's disease, exercise, depression, recreational therapyAbstract
Dementia is a disease that can affect individuals as they age, and for many individuals with dementia, there is a chance of additional comorbidities, such as depression. When these two health conditions occur simultaneously, it is more difficult to treat the depressive symptoms. To evaluate changes of depressive symptoms in residents of an assisted living facility who have the diagnosis of dementia, 10 days of 30-minute exercise sessions were conducted. Nonparametric statistics indicated a significant decrease in depressive symptoms for the seven participants in this exploratory pilot study. The results from this study indicate that a decrease in depressive symptoms is possible and can be facilitated by a recreational therapist via a structured exercise group. Further research ideas and implications for practice are described.
References
Alzheimer's Foundation of America: Definition, 2015. Available at http://www.alzfdn.org/AboutAlzheimers/definition.html. Accessed April 22, 2016.
Kramer AF, Colcombe SJ, McAuley E, et al.: Fitness, aging and neurocognitive function. Neurobiol Aging. 2005; 26(suppl 1): 124-127.
Potter R, Ellard D, Rees K, et al.: A systematic review of the effects of physical activity on physical functioning, quality of life and depression in older people with dementia. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2011; 26(10): 1000-1011.
Williams CL, Tappen RM: Exercise training for depressed older adults with Alzheimer's disease. Aging Mental Health. 2008; 12(1): 72-80.
Regan C, Katona C, Walker Z, et al.: Relationship of exercise and other risk factors to depression of Alzheimer's disease: The LASER-AD study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2005; 20(3): 261-268.
Barbour KA, Blumenthal JA: Exercise training and depression in older adults. Neurobiol Aging. 2005; 26(suppl 1): 119-123.
Fitzsimmons S: Easy rider wheelchair biking. A nursing-recreation therapy clinical trial for the treatment of depression. J Gerontol Nurs. 2001; 27(5): 14-23.
Olazaran J, Reisberg B, Clare L, et al.: Nonpharmacological therapies in Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review of efficacy. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord. 2010; 30(2): 161-178.
Rethorst CD, Wipfli BM, Landers DM: The antidepressive effects of exercise: A meta-analysis of randomized trials. Sports Med. 2009; 39(6): 491-511.
Mather AS, Rodriguez C, Guthrie MF, et al.: Effects of exercise on depressive symptoms in older adults with poorly responsive depressive disorder: Randomised controlled trial. Br J Psychiatry. 2002; 180: 411-415.
Singh NA, Clements KM, Singh MA: The efficacy of exercise as a long-term antidepressant in elderly subjects: A randomized, controlled trial. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2001; 56(8): M497-504.
Namazi KH, Gwinnup PB, Zadorozny CA: A low intensity exercise/movement program for patients with Alzheimer's disease: The TEMP-AD protocol. J Aging Phys Act. 1994; 2: 80-92.
Paw MJCA, van Poppel MN, Twisk JW, et al.: Effects of resistance and all-round, functional training on quality of life, vitality, and depression of older adults living in long-term care facilities: A randomized controlled trial. BMC Geriatr. 2004; 26(10): 1000-1011.
Greenberg SA: How to try this: The geriatric depression scale: Short form. Am J Nurs. 2007; 107(10): 60-69; quiz 69-70.
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Copyright 2000-2023, Weston Medical Publishing, LLC
All Rights Reserved
