Abstract
BackgroundExisting group exercise programmes, or other services offered to maintain physical activity levels, are typically not developed specifically for older adults with dementia. The aim of this study was to gain knowledge about perceptions of a newly developed volunteer supported group exercise programme for older adults with dementia, and any barriers that may have affected participation and compliance.MethodsSeven (six face-to-face and one by email) interviews were conducted with (i) older adults and volunteers participating in a pilot 12-week group exercise programme, (ii) caregivers, and (iii) therapists leading the group sessions. Interview transcriptions were systemised by use of NVivo 8 and analysed by use of Systematic Text Condensation method.ResultsThe theme “building relationships” represents the reason why attending this group was important for the participants. The findings suggest that how we organize exercise groups is important, with some sort of extra support, to ensure that persons will begin and continue to participate in new activities outside their homes.ConclusionsThis study showed that it is possible to involve home-dwelling persons with cognitive decline and dementia in group exercise sessions. The role of building relationships was the major factor for successful participation. Providing support and ensuring motivation for persons attending the group outside their homes was essential, both for them and their caregivers. Service providers should not underestimate the importance of building relationships between persons involved in service offers.
Highlights
Existing group exercise programmes, or other services offered to maintain physical activity levels, are typically not developed for older adults with dementia
In terms of structured physical activity, has shown promising effects on activities of daily living (ADL) in older people with dementia [5], which is highly relevant to delay the dependency in daily life resulting from dementia, and maintain the ability to live at home as long as possible after being diagnosed
Fall prevention exercise interventions are suggested highly relevant for persons with dementia, and are included in recent initiatives [6,7,8]
Summary
Other services offered to maintain physical activity levels, are typically not developed for older adults with dementia. In terms of structured physical activity, has shown promising effects on ADL in older people with dementia [5], which is highly relevant to delay the dependency in daily life resulting from dementia, and maintain the ability to live at home as long as possible after being diagnosed. Intervention studies aiming to evaluate effects of PA and exercise often do not focus on how to deliver services for older adults with cognitive decline or dementia, where one great challenge is participation. A study describing attitudes among older adults with cognitive challenges highlights the respect for the older person’s identity as crucial, and that individualised interventions, which focus on maintaining independence and preserving quality of life, may be more acceptable [14]. There is an urgent need for developing effective PA strategies for home-dwelling older adults with dementia
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