For People With Dementia, Exercise and Touch Therapy May Ease Mood
Graded Moderate — umbrella review of 12 systematic reviews covering 147 randomized trials, though every review had methodological weaknesses and certainty was low for several outcomes.
- Design
- Review
- Participants
- 12
- Duration
- —
- Funding
- The authors declare no conflict of interest.
This review suggests exercise and touch therapy may help mood in people with dementia.
Looking at dozens of trials, non-drug approaches gave small but steady improvements in agitation, depression, and anxiety for people with dementia. Thinking skills got a modest boost too. Quality of life didn't change. The most consistent helpers were tech-based tools, massage and touch therapy, and physical exercise.
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.
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