Abstract
Background Physical activity has many benefits for older individuals but evidence evaluating the specific benefit for individuals with a dementia is limited, especially for those living in residential accommodation. This makes it difficult to determine the optimum parameters of physical activity for this population. Aim Present a study protocol that tested the effects of a physical activity intervention on the health and well-being of individuals living with a dementia in residential accommodation. The protocol was generated from a systematic review of physical activity interventions with individuals living with a dementia in residential accommodation. Method The systematic review was used to develop an evidence based protocol for a physical activity intervention undertaken with individuals living with a dementia in residential accommodation by a physiotherapy doctoral candidate in South Australia. Findings The physical activity protocol consisted of a range of physical activities that targeted strength, balance, endurance and flexibility for two groups of participants: (i) individuals participating in sitting and standing activities and (ii) individuals participating in sitting activities. This ensured most individuals with a dementia were eligible to participate in the study. The effectiveness of the protocol was tested through a randomised controlled trial. The health outcome measures were a range of mobility measures, and well-being was measured using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory. Conclusion An evidence-based physical activity protocol for individuals living with a dementia in residential accommodation was developed from a systematic review, and implemented and tested using a randomised controlled trial. The findings identified the strength, balance, endurance and flexibility physical activities which are specifically effective for: (i) individuals participating in sitting and standing activities and (ii) individuals participating in sitting activities. The findings are being implemented by the doctoral candidate as she continues her work as a physiotherapist with individuals living with a dementia in residential accommodation.
| Original language | English |
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| Pages | 6 |
| Number of pages | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - Nov 2015 |
| Externally published | Yes |
| Event | 48th AAG National Conference - Alice Springs Convention Centre, Alice Springs, Australia Duration: 4 Nov 2015 → 6 Nov 2015 |
Conference
| Conference | 48th AAG National Conference |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | Australia |
| City | Alice Springs |
| Period | 4/11/15 → 6/11/15 |