Effect of physical activity on cognition and daily living activities of the elderly with mild dementia

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a physical activity program on cognitive function and ADLs in elderly people with mild dementia. [Subjects and Methods] Both groups (n=60) participated in a cognition program three times a week for 30 minutes each time over an eight-week period. In addition, the experimental group (n=30) underwent a physical activity program for 30 minutes three times a week over an eight-week period. The LOTCA-G and the FIM were recorded in both groups before and after the experiment to evaluate changes in their cognition and ADLs. [Results] The experimental group showed significant results in 18 subtests and total LOTCA-G, while the control group exhibited significant results in 8 subtests and total LOTCA-G. The comparison results between groups before and after the intervention are as follows. The experimental group showed significant results in 15 subtests and FIM total, while the control group exhibited significant results in 7 subtests and FIM total. The comparison results between groups before and after the intervention are as follows: significant results were revealed in 10 subtests and FIM total. [Conclusion] The physical activity program improves cognitive function and ADLs in patients with mild dementia.