Does physical exercise improve ADL capacities in people over 65 years with moderate or severe dementia hospitalized in an acute psychiatric setting? A multisite randomized clinical trial.

Background: Several studies on the effect of physical exercise on activities of daily living (ADL) for people with dementia exist; yet, data concerning the specific context of acute psychiatric hospitals remain scant. This study measured the effect of a physical exercise program on ADL scores in patients with moderate to severe dementia hospitalized in an acute psychiatric ward.

Methods: A multicenter clinical trial was conducted in five Swiss and Belgian psychiatric hospitals.

Impact of physical activity on activity of daily living in moderate to severe dementia: a critical review.

The objectives of this study were to describe the different modalities of physical activity programs designed for moderate to severe dementia and to identify their impact on functional independence in activities of daily living (ADL). A critical review of randomized controlled trials related to the impact of physical activity programs in moderately to severely demented persons on ADL performance and meta-analysis of the identified studies were performed. Among the 303 identified articles, five responded to the selection criteria.

[Preventing falls and fractures today].

The aim of preventive interventions is to reduce the number of falls and their traumatic consequences, especially hip fractures. A number of preventive interventional studies have shown that multifactorial, multidisciplinary interventions (improving mobility, reducing the use of psychotropic medications and environmental homes modifications) for community dwelling older people are effective. Improving strength and balance is key.