Researchers at the University of Arizona have found evidence that patients with dementia can adhere to, and experience significant benefits from, an intensive exercise program. Michael Schwenk, PhD, lead author of the research paper, states that “results indicate that medium to high training adherence can be achieved in the majority of geriatric inpatients despite cognitive impairment and acute functional impairment.” Dr. Schwenk believes that rehabilitation programs of low intensity are currently employed because of the preconceived limitations of those with dementia. He hopes this study will provide insight towards developing geriatric rehabilitation exercise programs that will engage the full potential of dementia patients and yield the maximum improvement possible.
