Regular Exercise Linked to 30% Lower Mortality Risk in Dementia Patients

A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that regular physical activity after a dementia diagnosis can reduce mortality risk by up to 30%, irrespective of exercise intensity, SciTech Daily reported yesterday.

Analyzing data from over 60,000 dementia patients in South Korea, researchers found that engaging in any level of physical activity significantly lowers the risk of death.

Participants were categorized based on their exercise habits before and after diagnosis, with non-exercisers showing the highest mortality rates. The study indicated that maintaining or starting an exercise routine is crucial, especially since the average life expectancy post-diagnosis is only 4-5 years.

The findings reinforce the importance of promoting physical activity among dementia patients, highlighting that even minimal exercise can have substantial health benefits. Researchers advocate for clinical strategies to encourage exercise as a means to enhance longevity in this vulnerable population.