Comparison of Strengthening and Balance Exercises in Early-Stage Dementia

The Effects Of Balance Exercises Versus Strengthening Exercises On Gait And Cognitive Parameters In Geriatric Individuals With Early-Stage Dementia

The aim of this study was to examine and compare the effects of balance exercises versus strengthening exercises on gait and cognitive parameters in older adults with early-stage dementia.

A total of 35 older adults with early-stage dementia were included in the study, and it was completed with 32 participants. The participants were divided into two groups and followed for 8 weeks. Group I received strengthening exercises, while Group II received balance exercises. After recording the demographic and clinical characteristics of all participants, gait was evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), spatiotemporal gait parameters, and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test; cognitive parameters were assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Dynamic Lowenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment - Geriatric Version (DLOTCA-G); muscle strength was measured using Activforce-2; and quality of life was evaluated using the WHOQOL-OLD (World Health Organization Quality of Life - Older Adults Module).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 65 and 95 years,
• Able to walk 10 meters independently,
• Scoring between 16 and 26 on the Mini Mental State Examination,
• Literate individuals (able to read and write).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having uncontrolled heart disease,
• Body mass index (BMI) below 18.5 kg/m² or above 35 kg/m²,
• Diagnosed with cancer,
• Completely lost vision,
• Having any disease that may prevent performing exercise.