Exercise for 'Behavioral and Psychological symptoms of dementia'. A pilot study to examine the effects of exercise on BPSD and the role of cognition in institutionalized elderly with dementia.

Timmerman, J.G. (Josien) (2010) Exercise for 'Behavioral and Psychological symptoms of dementia'. A pilot study to examine the effects of exercise on BPSD and the role of cognition in institutionalized elderly with dementia. thesis, Human Movement Sciences.

Text Timmerman.pdf Restricted to Registered users only Download (23MB)

Abstract

Background Next to cognitive decline, dementia is characterized by 'Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia'(BPSD) as well. Evidence of the beneficial effect of exercise on BPSD in elderly with dementia is scarce. Also, no consensus exists about the possible explaining mechanisms of this effect. A potential explanatory factor related to both exercise and BPSD, is cognitive function. Objective. The aim of the present study was to examine whether exercise had a positive effect on BPSD in elderly with dementia and BPSD, and whether this effect was moderated or mediated by cognitive function. Methods. Six subjects (mean age 80) with mild to severe dementia (mean MMSE=9) and observable BPSD, were offered an exercise intervention for six weeks, five times a week, with an individually adapted program. BPSD, neuropsychological tests, and physical fitness were determined at baseline, after 3 and 6 weeks intervention, and 4 weeks post intervention. Results. A considerable amount of variation was seen both between and within subjects in the occurrence and progression of BPSD. Despite this variability, a positive effect of the exercise intervention was observed on BPSD. The analysis of the separate factors clarified that especially symptoms of agitation/aggression, psychomotor agitation, positive affect and psychosis improved following the intervention. The role of cognition could not be determined satisfactorily, although data suggest that executive function plays a role in the improvement of BPSD. Conclusion. Although there is still no consensus about the explanatory mechanisms, the findings of the present study indicate that exercise, if adapted for each participants individual possibilities, is a feasible day time activity that has the potential to improve symptoms of BPSD in institutionalized elderly with dementia.

Item Type:	Thesis (Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Heuvelen, Dr. Marieke J.G. van
Supervisor name:	Bolt, Meindert and Nieuwenhuis, Eveline and De Hoven, Location Delfzijl and Appingedam
Faculty:	Medical Sciences
Date Deposited:	25 Jun 2020 10:50
Last Modified:	25 Jun 2020 10:50
URI:	https://umcg.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/1122

Actions (login required)

View Item