A new study suggests that a straightforward daily routine of physical exercise combined with protein-rich nutritional drinks could help people with dementia maintain their independence and reduce the amount of care they need.
Researchers from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden found that participants who followed this program not only improved their physical strength but also became better able to handle everyday tasks on their own.
The findings, published in the journal Alzheimer’s and Dementia, offer hope for improving quality of life among older adults living in nursing homes or special housing.
Many residents in these settings face a high risk of malnutrition, muscle weakness, and frailty, all of which can make daily activities more difficult and increase dependence on caregivers.
The study involved 102 residents from eight nursing homes in the Stockholm area.
For 12 weeks, participants in the intervention group were encouraged to perform simple standing exercises several times a day.
They were also asked to drink one or two nutritional shakes enriched with protein each day to support muscle health.
Researchers tracked how much assistance participants needed with routine activities such as getting dressed, maintaining personal hygiene, and moving around.
When all residents were analyzed together, the results did not show major differences between those who followed the program and those who did not.
However, a clearer picture emerged when researchers looked specifically at residents living in dementia units.
In these wards, participants who took part in the exercise and nutrition program showed noticeable improvements in their ability to function independently. They required less help from staff compared with those in the control group.
According to lead researcher Anders Wimo, one possible reason is that residents in dementia units may still have enough physical capacity to benefit from targeted interventions. Strengthening muscles and improving balance could allow them to carry out more tasks by themselves, even if cognitive challenges remain.
The research team also noted that earlier interviews with participants suggested that improved physical function can directly affect how much support a person needs in daily life. Being able to stand, walk, or dress more easily can reduce reliance on caregivers and increase confidence.
While the results are encouraging, the researchers caution that more studies are needed. This analysis was based on secondary data, meaning that reduced care needs were not the primary focus of the original trial. Future research should examine care time more directly and consider factors such as staffing levels and daily routines in care facilities.
Experts say the study highlights the importance of addressing physical health alongside cognitive health in dementia care. Even simple, low-cost interventions may make a meaningful difference in maintaining independence and dignity for people living with the condition.
As the number of people with dementia continues to grow worldwide, approaches that help individuals stay active and self-sufficient could ease the burden on families and healthcare systems while improving patients’ quality of life.
