Effects of a physical training programme on cognitive function and walking efficiency in elderly persons with dementia.

OBJECTIVES

To study the effects of physical stimulation based on walking exercises, equilibrium and endurance on cognitive function and walking efficiency in patients with dementia.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trial including 31 subjects suffering from dementia (age: 81.8 +/- 5.3 years). The intervention group (n = 16) benefited from a 15-week physical activity programme involving three 1-hour sessions per week. The control group (n = 15) did not practice any physical activities. Before and after rehabilitation, all subjects were evaluated with the Rapid Evaluation of Cognitive Functions test (ERFC French version) and walking analysis.

RESULTS

After the 15 weeks of rehabilitation, the subjects from the intervention group improved their overall ERFC score (p < 0.01), while those in the control group decreased their overall ERFC score. Interactions were also observed between walking parameters and groups (p < 0.01); the intervention group improved walking capacities through heightened walking speed, stride length and a reduction in double limb support time. Lastly, the subjects from the control group presented a reduction in both walking speed and stride length.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that a physical activity programme can slow cognitive decline and improve quality of walking in elderly persons suffering from dementia.