Teri et al (1998) studied a group of Alzheimer's patients aged from 60 years to 90 years who were suffering from dementia, and their caregivers, 86 percent of whom were spouses of the subjects. Most of the subjects were Caucasian (83 percent), and the remainder were African American (412). Baseline data was recorded and the subjects were started on an exercise program, assisted by their caregivers, which assessed their pattern of walking speed, functional reach, and standing balance (412-413). Exercise training for the subjects and their caregivers was given in the patients' homes by a master's level health professional who had experience with dementia subjects and their families (415). The trainers were also supervised weekly by expert clinical geropsychologists.
The test period spanned a 12-week period (Teri et al, 1998, 413). Caregivers completed a daily exercise log identifying which exercises had been completed that day and for how long, and exercise trainers completed a treatment adherence form after each session (414). Exercise sessions with trained health professionals were given twice weekly for the first three weeks, once a week for the next four weeks, then biweekly for the next four weeks. Strength training exercises were performed on three non-consecutive days of the week. For endurance-building, patients were asked to walk for at least 30 minutes on at least three non-consecutive days each week. Balance and flexibility exercises for 10 to 15 minutes were recommended prior to strength training and endurance exercises.
Results of this study showed that Alzheimer's patients who were active were able to improve and expand their existing exercise routines (Teri, 1998, 417). The program was well-received by the patients, with 100 percent of subjects attempting some exercise during the 12 weeks of the program. One third of the group completed all exercises that were assigned. Mood and behavior of the subje...