Flash Cards For Relevant Exam, Dementia And Alzhemiers
What are the primary characteristics of Alzheimer’s and dementia?
• Cognitive decline: Memory loss, reduced problem-solving, and impaired judgment.
• Behavioral changes: Agitation, depression, and apathy.
• Physical symptoms: Declining motor function and frailty in advanced stages.
• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for ~ 60-80% of cases.
How does exercise benefit individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia?
• Improves cognitive function by promoting brain health and neuroplasticity.
• Reduces neuroinflammation and slows disease progression.
• Enhances physical function, reducing fall risk and improving mobility.
• Reduces behavioral symptoms like agitation and depression.
What types of exercise are most effective for Alzheimer’s and dementia?
- Aerobic exercise: Walking, cycling, or swimming (3-5 times per week, 30-60 min).
- Resistance training: Improves muscle strength and physical function (2-3 days per week).
- Balance and flexibility exercises: Yoga or tai chi to reduce fall risk.
- Cognitive engagement through exercise: Activities like dancing or group classes that stimulate both the brain and body.
What is neurogenesis?
Increases BDNF levels, promoting growth of neurons and synaptic plasticity.
How does exercise benefit cerebral blood flow?
Enhanced blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients, supporting brain health.
What effect does exercise have on neuroinflammation?
Exercise decreases levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-a).
How does exercise aid in amyloid-beta clearance?
May aid in reducing toxic protein buildup in the brain.
What is the impact of exercise on mitochondrial function?
Supports energy production and reduces oxidative stress in brain cells.
What barriers to exercise might people with Alzheimer’s and dementia face?
Cognitive impairments make remembering and following routines challenging.
Behavioral symptoms like apathy or agitation reduce motivation.
What are additional barriers to exercise for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia?
Physical frailty or comorbidities can limit participation.
Safety concerns due to balance issues or wandering behavior.
What are common outcome measures used in exercise studies for Alzheimer’s?
Cognitive function: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), verbal fluency, or memory recall tasks.
What behavioral symptoms are measured in exercise studies for Alzheimer’s?
Depression, apathy, and agitation scales.
What physical performance measures are used in exercise studies for Alzheimer’s?
Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, grip strength, or gait speed.
What biomarkers are assessed in exercise studies for Alzheimer’s?
Blood-based markers of inflammation (e.g., IL-6, CRP), and neuroimaging for amyloid-beta.
What are the gaps in knowledge about exercise for Alzheimer’s and dementia?
Limited research on the long-term effects of exercise on disease progression.
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