The Essential Role and Value of Activity in Life: Why Staying Engaged Matters for Everyone, Especially Those with Dementia
Activity is a fundamental component of life that goes beyond physical fitness. When we think of “activity,” we often picture cardio workouts or physical exercise, but activity is much more than that. It encompasses physical, mental, social, and emotional engagement—essential elements that contribute to a meaningful and fulfilling life. When we stop being active, we start to become sedentary, and that sedentary lifestyle has consequences. Inactivity affects our bodies, minds, and overall well-being, leading to the gradual atrophy of physical and cognitive abilities. This article explores the value of activity in life – for all people – and highlights why it is especially crucial for those living with dementia.
The Value of Activity in Life
Physical Health and Vitality
Activity keeps our bodies strong and resilient. Physical movement maintains muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance. It also supports cardiovascular health, respiratory function, and immune resilience. When we stay active, we reduce our risk of chronic diseases, maintain balance and coordination, and improve our capacity for daily activities. The alternative—a sedentary lifestyle—can lead to weakened muscles, joint stiffness, poor circulation, and a decline in overall physical health.
Mental Engagement and Cognitive Health – Activity also keeps our minds sharp. Mental activities such as reading, puzzles, learning new skills, and engaging in meaningful conversations stimulate cognitive function. *Numerous studies show that people who engage in regular mental activity have a lower risk of cognitive decline and are better able to maintain memory, problem-solving abilities, and attention span. Inactivity, on the other hand, can lead to a faster decline in cognitive abilities, affecting everything from memory to decision-making.
Emotional Well-being – Being active—whether it’s through social interactions, hobbies, or physical movement—boosts our mood and emotional health. Activity increases the release of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones, which help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Social engagement through activities with friends and family provides a sense of belonging and connection, which is essential for mental health. A life of inactivity can often lead to isolation, loneliness, and even depressive symptoms.
Purpose and Fulfillment – Purposeful activity provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Pursuing hobbies, setting goals, or engaging in community activities gives people something to look forward to, creates meaning, and keeps them invested in life. Activity contributes to personal growth and resilience, helping people navigate life’s challenges with a sense of agency and satisfaction.
The Unique Importance and Value of Activity in Life for People with Dementia
For people living with dementia, activity plays an even more crucial role. While dementia affects memory, thinking, and behavior, staying active can help slow cognitive decline, improve mood, and enhance quality of life. Here’s why activity is essential in dementia care:
Preserving Cognitive Abilities – Engaging in structured and meaningful activities can help maintain cognitive function for those with dementia. Simple activities like word puzzles, arts and crafts, or gardening stimulate the brain and create opportunities for cognitive exercise. While dementia is progressive, activity can slow its effects, helping people retain abilities longer and maintain a sense of accomplishment.
Reducing Behavioral Symptoms – Activity can help manage some of the behavioral symptoms associated with dementia, such as agitation, anxiety, and restlessness. People with dementia often experience confusion and frustration, which can lead to difficult behaviors. Activities, especially those tailored to their interests and abilities, can reduce these symptoms by providing a positive outlet and routine. Engaging in an activity they enjoy can redirect their focus and reduce anxiety.
Maintaining Physical Health – Physical activity helps individuals with dementia retain physical strength, balance, and flexibility. Regular movement reduces the risk of falls, improves circulation, and supports overall mobility. Simple activities like walking, gentle stretching, or dancing to familiar music can keep muscles active, improve coordination, and prevent the decline that often accompanies dementia. Physical activity also improves sleep quality, which can have a profound effect on both mood and cognitive clarity.
Emotional and Social Connection – People with dementia benefit greatly from social interactions, as they often feel isolated or disconnected from those around them. Activities that involve family, friends, or other residents help to create a sense of belonging and familiarity. Even simple interactions, like cooking a meal together, can bring joy and create meaningful moments. Additionally, physical touch, like holding hands during a walk or giving a gentle massage, can provide reassurance and comfort, making them feel cared for and connected.
Promoting Autonomy and Dignity – Activity can give people with dementia a sense of purpose and autonomy, reinforcing their dignity. Simple tasks, like folding laundry or watering plants, can be empowering, reminding them of their abilities. Structured activities that incorporate their past interests and skills allow them to engage in meaningful actions, reinforcing a sense of personal identity and value.
Creating Positive Memories and Emotions – Even if individuals with dementia may not remember specific events or activities, the emotions they experience during those moments stay with them. Positive activities that involve sensory experiences like music, touch, or art—can lift their spirits, reduce fear, and create lingering feelings of joy. Caregivers who facilitate these activities help build emotional well-being that lasts beyond the moment.
Building Activity into Daily Life
Maintaining a lifestyle of varied activities—physical, mental, social, and creative—can transform life. This is true for both those with dementia and the general population. It’s about building small, enjoyable actions into everyday routines.
Here are some ideas:
- Physical: Encourage gentle exercises like walking, dancing, or chair yoga.
- Mental: Introduce puzzles, reading, storytelling, or reminiscing sessions.
- Social: Engage in group activities, family visits, or community events.
- Creative: Facilitate art projects, gardening, or music sessions that bring out personal expression.
In dementia care, especially, tailoring activities to an individual’s past interests and preferences can be deeply rewarding and affirming. The key is to find ways to help people stay connected to their identity, even as their cognitive abilities change.
For the above article: The Value of Activity in Life
* Citation: Wilson, R. S., Mendes De Leon, C. F., Barnes, L. L., Schneider, J. A., Bienias, J. L., Evans, D. A., & Bennett, D. A. (2002). Participation in cognitively stimulating activities and risk of incident Alzheimer disease. JAMA, 287(6), 742-748. doi:10.1001/jama.287.6.742
Note: Cognitive activity can help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms and reduce the risk of cognitive decline in the general population. For those predisposed to Alzheimer’s, cognitive activity may delay when symptoms first appear but may not prevent the disease altogether.
To summarize, activity is essential to a full and meaningful life for everyone. For those with dementia, it is especially significant, as it not only helps slow the decline of cognitive and physical abilities – abilities needed to perform many activities of daily life – but also nurtures emotional well-being, preserves dignity, and reinforces a sense of connection and purpose. Whether through movement, mental stimulation, social engagement, or creative expression, activity keeps us all engaged with life.
For care partners, promoting activities for residents or loved ones with dementia isn’t just about filling time—it’s about creating moments of joy, engagement, and identity. Every small action is an opportunity to enrich life, support well-being, and make each day a little brighter.
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Creating and Presenting Activities Adapted for the Cognitively Impaired
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