Physical activity in early-onset dementia.

Development of early-onset dementia (EOD) is very radical and disabling for both patient and family, due to the still prominent role of the patient in society. Except for knowledge on cognitive disorders not much is known about other disabling disorders in EOD. Several characteristics of EOD, like apathy and loss of initiative, could lead to motor inactivity which can lead to motor disability. Evidence is found on a strong association between physical aerobe activity and cognition in both people of middle age as in the elderly.

In our study three different exercise programs are offered to persons with early-onset dementia. We will investigate which program is able to slow down the progressive course of the symptoms of dementia.

Development of early-onset dementia (EOD) is very radical and disabling for both patient and family, due to the still prominent role of the patient in society. Except for knowledge on cognitive disorders not much is known about other disabling disorders in EOD. Several characteristics of EOD, like apathy and loss of initiative, could lead to motor inactivity which can lead to motor disability. Evidence is found on a strong association between physical aerobe activity and cognition in both people of middle age as in the elderly.



Researchquestion:

Three different exercise programs are offered to persons with early-onset dementia: Aerobe Activity Program; Non-aerobe Activity Program; Aerobe activity program at home. Which program is able to slow down the progressive course of the symptoms of dementia (regarding: cognition, instrumental activities of daily living, and quality of life)?



Hypothesis:

Given the positive effects found in animal studies, it is expected that the Aerobe Activity Program will show most beneficial effects on the symptoms of dementia in early-onset dementia.

1. Baseline measurement, before intervention;

2. Measurement after the intervention, 3 months after baseline measurement;

3. Measurement 6 months after baseline measurement.

1. Aerobe activity program:

a. Length: 3 months;

b. Frequency: 3 times a week;

c. Activity: primarily cycling on a cycle ergometer;

d. Setting: rehabilitation centre.

2. Flexibility program:

a. Length: 3 months;

b. Frequency: 3 times a week;

c. Activity: flexibility exercises and relaxation exercises;

d. Setting: rehabilitation centre.

3. Aerobe activity program at home:

a. Length: 3 months;

b. Frequency: 3 times a week;

c. Activity: primarily cycling;

d. Setting: at home.