Exercise and "Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia"A study to examine the effects of an individually adapted exercise program on BPSD in institutionalized elderly with dementia

Steemers, S. (Suze) (2012) Exercise and "Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia"A study to examine the effects of an individually adapted exercise program on BPSD in institutionalized elderly with dementia. thesis, Human Movement Sciences.

Text Steemers.pdf Restricted to Registered users only Download (25MB)

Abstract

Background Next to cognitive decline, dementia is characterized by "Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia" (BPSD) as well. Exercise may have a beneficial effect onBPSD. Objective. The aim was to examine whether exercise has a positive effect on BPSD in older people with dementia and BPSD, and whether this effect is mediated by changes in cognitive function. Methods. Two male subjects (80 and 88 years of age) with moderate dementia and BPSD, were offered an individually adapted exercise intervention for six weeks, five times a week. BPSD was observed daily during a baseline period (three weeks), intervention period (six weeks) and follow-up period (three weeks). Cognition and physical functioning were secondary outcome measures. Results. In both subjects BPSD reduced during the intervention however, changes in medication and incentives were alternative explanations for this reduction. Overall, secondary outcome measures cognition and physical functioning did not change with BPSD and therefore, cognition is not identified as a mediator in the effect of exercise on BPSD. Conclusion. Generally, BPSD reduced, but cognition could not be identified as mediator. Changes in the environment are alternative explanations for the reductions and this emphasizes the complexity of research in nursing home residents with dementia and BPSD. However, to offer a non-pharmacological approach that possibly reduces symptoms ofBPSD and consequently the workload for the caregivers, is important. Further research is needed to enhance knowledge about the influence of exercise on BPSD.

Item Type:	Thesis (Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Under the supervision of and Heuvelen, Dr. M.J.G. van and Nieuwenhuis, Drs. E. and Centre for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Centr and University of Groningen, the Netherlands
Faculty:	Medical Sciences
Date Deposited:	25 Jun 2020 10:51
Last Modified:	25 Jun 2020 10:51
URI:	https://umcg.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/1215

Actions (login required)

View Item