Preserving physical activity for people with younger onset dementia research

What role does staying active play in preserving physical and cognitive health for people living with younger onset dementia?

That is the question University of Canberra PhD candidate Nicholas Lawlis is researching with the support of Dementia Australia Research Foundation funding.

“Staying physically active is something we’re all encouraged to do but following a dementia diagnosis this can be particularly important,” Mr Lawlis said. “It’s about preserving the quality of life and maintaining the activities of daily life.”

He developed an interest in the topic when working as an exercise physiologist with people living with younger onset dementia (people diagnosed with dementia under the age of 65).

When he realised there was limited information for allied health practitioners, he decided to undertake research that will inform tailored clinical guidelines and interventions.

“People living with younger onset dementia are generally at a different stage of their lives than those who are diagnosed later on in life, so their circumstances are different,” he said.

“They may have dependents or their partner could still be working. Safety may be a concern and there may be transport issues preventing them from accessing activities.

“These can be barriers to remaining physically active or even becoming physically active in the first place.”

Part of his research is understanding those barriers and developing interventions that will help improve their health outcomes after they have been diagnosed.

Research outcomes

Mr Lawlis has involved Dementia Australia Dementia Advocates, both people living with younger onset dementia as well as carers, in his research giving him valuable insight into the specific challenges of being diagnosed with dementia before the age of 65.

His research into the barriers to physical activity for people living with younger onset dementia will support future research into the tangible benefits of physical activity.

By informing health practitioners, caregivers and policymakers, the findings of his research will enhance treatment strategies, promote independence and improve quality of life for people living with younger onset dementia.

“It’s very rewarding because we know that being in optimal health is so important for quality of life following a dementia diagnosis, so I know that this research is going to benefit people to do that,” he said.

More information

Dementia Australia has information, services and support for people living with younger onset dementia. Visit the younger onset dementia section of the websiteto find out more.

The Dementia Australia Research Foundation funds new and early career dementia researchers such as Nicholas Lawlis. You can find out more on our website.

Visit the Dementia Australia website to learn more about how you can reduce your risk of dementia.

Dementia Australia’s podcast Hold the Moment includes an episode on staying fit with dementia. You can find out more about this and other podcast episodeson our website.

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