The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #66782

Patricia Heyn, PhD, Beatriz Abreu, PhD, FAOTA, and Kenneth Ottenbacher, PhD, FAOTA. Division of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555, (409) 797-1458, paheyn@utmb.edu

The prediction of a significant increase in the number of people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders call attention for the need to study the effectiveness of physical activity rehabilitation programs to ameliorate, alleviate, and improve the health of this population. This study evaluated whether reported outcomes of exercise and physical activity interventions for older adults with dementia and related cognitive impairments improved selected physical and functional parameters due participation in physical activity programs. The results of the present research synthesis support the hypothesis that persons affected by dementia and related cognitive disorders benefit from participation in physical activity and exercise training programs. The findings, along with other factors that affected the results of this study will be discussed, and future research recommendations will be proposed.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to recognize the importance of exercise and physical activity training for older adults with dementia.

Keywords: Dementia, Exercise

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.