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jajocaregiver08 Asked January 2014

What time of day is best for a program of exercise for an individual with Dementia?

It is a well know fact that exercise is helpful for individuals with Dementia with regard to helping them stay active which ultimately encourages a better sleep pattern and in some instances my help reduce the effects of "sundowners". The specific question is what time of day is best for a program of exercise for an individual with Dementia to get the most benefit and encourage a better sleep pattern?

gwen12 Jan 2014
If the person is on any type of medication that impacts balance, mood, fatigue or you have observed dizziness, try to find out when they may be having the greatest impact (highest blood level). If given only at bedtime this probably isn't an issue but if given in the morning as a rule of thumb I would aim for a window between 12:30 and 3:00. My mother is in a nursing home and after a discussion with the therapist we finally came to the realization that her lack of compliance or ability to go through session was impacted by this observation. It is helpful to have a conversation with your pharmacist who can give you this information quickly.

datajammer Jan 2014
morning is best, by afternoon the patient is already tired, both physically and mentally

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MissAlice Jan 2014
My husband is attending a local Adult Day Care program which has 60 minutes of exercise around 2 pm every day. He has just started and enjoys it very much. We try to walk for 15 to 20 minutes on the days he is home.

ferris1 Jan 2014
Exercise in the a.m. after breakfast, in the afternoon, and anytime during the day, except 2 hours prior to bedtime. Exercising all day is a good idea for anyone. If you don't move it, you will lose the ability to move. Movement increases blood flow to the brain and muscles and that's a great thing!

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