Overview
Activity improves sleep, mood, balance, and cardiovascular health, and reduces fall risk and agitation.
A practical target
- Aim for about 150 minutes per week of moderate activity
- Include balance and strength work twice weekly
- Walking counts; several short walks are fine
Making it work with dementia
- Same time each day builds habit
- Exercise together rather than instructing
- Use familiar routes and music
- Physical therapy can set a safe starting point
Medically reviewed. Last reviewed August 2026. This page is educational information, not individualized medical advice.