Exercise Dosage in Reducing the Risk of Dementia Development: Mode, Duration, and Intensity—A Narrative Review

Abstract

Senile dementia, also known as dementia, is the mental deterioration which is associated with aging. It is characterized by a decrease in cognitive abilities, inability to concentrate, and especially the loss of higher cerebral cortex function, including memory, judgment, abstract thinking, and other loss of personality, even behavior changes. As a matter of fact, dementia is the deterioration of mental and intellectual functions caused by brain diseases in adults when they are mature, which affects the comprehensive performance of life and work ability. Most dementia cases are caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and multiple infarct dementia (vascular dementia, multi-infarct dementia). Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by atrophy, shedding, and degenerative alterations in brain cells, and its occurrence is linked to age. The fraction of the population with dementia is smaller before the age of 65, and it increases after the age of 65. Since women live longer than men, the proportion of women with Alzheimer’s disease is higher. Multiple infarct dementia is caused by a cerebral infarction, which disrupts blood supply in multiple locations and impairs cerebral cortex function. Researchers worldwide are investigating ways to prevent Alzheimer’s disease; however, currently, there are no definitive answers for Alzheimer’s prevention. Even so, research has shown that we can take steps to reduce the risk of developing it. Prospective studies have found that even light to moderate physical activity can lower the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Exercise has been proposed as a potential lifestyle intervention to help reduce the occurrence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Various workout modes will be introduced based on various physical conditions. In general, frequent exercise for 6–8 weeks lessens the risk of dementia development.

Mechanistic Insights, Treatment Paradigms, and Clinical Progress in Neurological Disorders: Current and Future Prospects

“…At this age (> 65 years old), the individual exhibits the symptoms of dementia due to AD, commonly called Alzheimer’s dementia [ 97 ]. AD is characterized by personality changes and reduced cognitive function, memory, and language skills, as well as some brain alterations that progressively deteriorate over time [ 98 ]. Over time, AD causes a loss of function regarding even the most basic everyday activities [ 99 ].…”

The role of physical exercise as a prevention towards dementia

“…In a meta-analysis study, regular physical activity with a duration of >1 hour 2 times a week can reduce the risk of dementia [24]. Another study described the duration of physical activity based on its intensity, where moderate intensity exercise was carried out for 150 minutes/week and heavy intensity for 75-150 minutes/week [28]. Based on a 24-month randomized controlled trial in Australia, 150 minutes/week of home physical activity not only has an effect on health but can also increase adherence to activities [29].…”

“…The type of exercise will be adjusted to the physical condition of each person. In general, regular exercise for 6-8 weeks reduces the risk of developing dementia [28]. Recent studies have shown that about 3% of all cases of dementia can be prevented by increasing physical activity [30,31].…”

Cytokines as Biomarkers for Evaluating Physical Exercise in Trained and Non-Trained Individuals: A Narrative Review

“…Physical exercise also has numerous benefits for mental health. It has been shown that physical exercise reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety [ 8 ], improves mood and cognitive function [ 9 ], and reduces the risk of cognitive decline and dementia [ 10 ]. It also can improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels [ 11 ].…”