Exercise types and ideas for people with dementia

There are different types of movement and exercise that are more suitable to people depending on the stage of dementia and their physical abilities.

Physical activity and exercise
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Less intensive movements for people with dementia

If moderate or vigorous activities aren’t suitable for you, you may want to try lighter activities. These may be suitable if you have limited fitness levels or difficulty with movement. This includes many daily living tasks such as: 

  • doing housework  
  • bringing in the shopping
  • taking your dog for a walk
  • pacing while waiting for the kettle to boil
  • doing some gentle stretches during TV ad breaks
  • walking up and down the stairs
  • standing up slowly and sitting down again every so often.  

Moderate physical activities for people with dementia

These activities are more likely to get you moving at a moderate intensity. An activity is moderate if it makes you breathe faster and feel warmer. As a guide, you’ll still be able to talk but not sing the words to a song.

Remember to warm up and stretch before starting any of these activities.

Vigorous exercises suitable for people with dementia

Vigorous or strenuous physical activities should make you breathe hard and fast. Being this active means you can’t say more than a few words before you’re out of breath.  

Vigorous activities may suit you if you are already active. Speak to your GP or other health professional if you’re not currently very active and looking to do any of these activities.

It’s very important to warm up and stretch before carrying out any of the following activities each time. This is also the case for moderate activities. Many of these can be vigorous if you increase your effort doing them. 

Physical activity resources, support and ideas for people with dementia

  • Alzheimer's Scotland produce a wide range of information about dementia, including a booklet called 'Just Move: Physical Activity and exercise ideas for people living with dementia’ created in partnership with the NHS and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
  • Dementia Adventure is a charity that organises short breaks and holidays for people living with dementia and their family and friends
  • Dementia Toolkit is a collection of research and evidence-based resources for people with dementia and their carers
  • Keep Fit Association offers people the opportunity to meet in a spirit of fun to exercise together. It offers a range of classes, including dedicated classes to people over 50, across the UK
  • The Sporting Memories Foundation is a charity dedicated to sports reminiscence and physical activities
  • We Are Undefeatable is a campaign that supports people with a range of long-term health conditions. It has been developed by 15 leading health and social care charities, including Alzheimer’s Society.   

Find exercises and activities in your area

AgeUK have an exercise directory to help you find activities in your area.  

Search for local activities