Physical activity: a valuable ally in preventing and slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases
Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia… With an ageing population, neurodegenerative diseases represent a major public health challenge. Whilst there is currently no cure, certain measures can help reduce the risk of developing them or slow their progression. Among these, physical activity plays a key role.
Dr Avidan Kogel, a geriatrician and Deputy Medical Director for Nursing Homes and Home Care at emeis, shares his advice on how to make physical activity a lasting part of your daily routine.
Much more than just a benefit for the muscles
We have long known that physical activity contributes to healthy ageing. However, evidence demonstrating a specific effect on slowing cognitive decline is more recent. Research shows that regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain and enhances oxygenation. “Physical activity also stimulates the formation of new connections between neurons, promotes learning and memory processes, and reduces certain inflammatory processes involved in neurodegenerative diseases,” explains Dr Avidan Kogel.
Not all causes of neurodegenerative diseases can be controlled. Age, for example, is a risk factor over which no one has any control. However, other factors, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and depression, can be prevented or better managed, particularly through physical activity.
For people who already have mild cognitive impairment but do not meet all the criteria for a condition such as Alzheimer’s, this preventive measure, combined with a healthy lifestyle, can help slow the progression of the disease.
The best exercise is the one you want to do again
To reap these benefits, there’s no need to become a sports enthusiast. Walking to buy bread, climbing stairs, gardening, dancing, swimming or practising tai chi: every movement counts. “Any activity that breaks the cycle of a sedentary lifestyle is beneficial,” emphasises Dr Kogel. The aim is, above all, to establish a lasting habit.
Current guidelines recommend 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity per week (to be adapted to each person’s abilities). However, for the geriatrician, regularity always takes precedence over performance. “If someone hates running but forces themselves to do it because they’ve been told it’s good for them, they’ll give up quickly. Conversely, if they enjoy dancing, gardening or swimming, they’ll keep doing it for years.”
Exercising with others is an added bonus. As well as providing motivation, these shared moments foster social connections, which are also recognised as a protective factor for cognitive health.
For older or frail people, getting back into exercise should be a gradual process. It is best to start with short sessions, in a safe environment, wearing suitable footwear and, if necessary, with support or assistance.
Once the disease has set in, keep moving… in a different way
A diagnosis of a neurodegenerative disease does not mark the end of physical activity – quite the opposite. “Physical activity does not cure a neurodegenerative disease. However, it can help to slow down certain symptoms, limit functional decline and, above all, preserve independence for longer,” emphasises Dr Kogel.
The focus, however, shifts: it is no longer simply a matter of exercising, but of maintaining the movements essential for daily life. The doctor refers to this as functional physical activity. Getting up from a chair unaided, walking out to the garden, climbing a few steps or helping with household chores are all essential movements for maintaining independence. Family members play a vital role here. Out of fear of falls or disorientation, they are sometimes tempted to do things for their loved one. Whilst this is a well-meaning approach, it can accelerate the loss of independence. “It is better to support, encourage and provide reassurance than to take over.”
Physical activity forms part of a holistic approach
To maintain cognitive function in the long term, physical activity must be combined with other healthy habits. A balanced diet, with sufficient protein to maintain muscle mass, good-quality sleep and effective management of risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes are just as important. Regular physical activity also improves sleep quality and helps reduce symptoms of depression, which are themselves considered modifiable risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases. Added to this is cognitive stimulation – whether through reading, playing, socialising, learning or taking part in creative activities – all of which are ways of continuing to engage the brain on a daily basis, as well as maintaining social connections. “It is all these habits combined that enable us to age better,” summarises Dr Avidan Kogel.
At emeis, activities tailored to each individual
Supervised by adapted physical activity instructors (EAPA), physiotherapists, occupational therapists or psychomotor therapists, residents at emeisnursing homes take part in a variety of workshops: walking, balance exercises, muscle strengthening, dance, tai chi, yoga and coordination exercises.
Tailored to each individual’s abilities, these workshops aim to maintain motor and cognitive skills, preserve independence and make physical activity a shared pleasure in everyday life.
