Optimizing Physical Health for a Loved One with Dementia

Families caring for a loved one with dementia often put their full concentration on preserving cognitive function, seeking ways to support memory, awareness, and mental sharpness. Yet, physical health is just as critical. Good physical health promotes better sleep, regulates blood pressure and blood sugar, and supports heart and brain function, all of which contribute to overall quality of life.

Breaking this down in greater detail, here are some of the benefits individuals with dementia will gain through a lifestyle that emphasizes physical as well as cognitive health:

• Greater strength, balance, endurance, and mobility. Movement and exercise builds muscle strength and maintains joint flexibility, making it easier to perform daily tasks such as walking, dressing, or reaching for objects. This not only supports physical independence but also encourages continued engagement in meaningful activities. Being in better physical condition also helps guard against falls, a significant concern for older adults and those living with dementia.
• Better quality sleep. Improved physical health has been shown to promote deeper, more restorative sleep. Good sleep is essential not only for energy and mood but also for supporting memory and overall brain health.
• Support for cognition and emotional well-being. Good physical health improves blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which can help slow cognitive decline. It is also linked to better mood, less anxiety or depression, and fewer behavioral challenges such as agitation or restlessness.
• Enhanced overall health. Optimizing physical health plays a vital role in long-term wellness. It helps maintain heart health, supports healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels, assists with weight management, and boosts energy levels, contributing to improved quality of life.

As you can see from the above, optimizing physical health offers a variety of benefits that support both their body and overall well-being. And it is equally important to note that improving physical health can also help optimize cognition, improve mood, and minimize behavioral issues.

How can family caregivers better support the physical health of a loved one with dementia? The following strategies can serve as a helpful starting point:

• Keep regular doctor visits. Ongoing medical appointments are vital for monitoring both cognitive and physical health. Regular checkups allow healthcare providers to track disease progression, adjust treatment plans as needed, and identify new health issues early. These visits also give family caregivers an opportunity to ask questions, share observations, and receive guidance on managing changing needs.
• Stay on top of medications. Individuals with dementia often take multiple medications to manage symptoms and related health conditions. Proper medication management helps ensure treatments are effective, reduces the risk of missed doses or overdosing, and minimizes harmful side effects or interactions. Family caregivers play an important role in creating routines or using tools such as pill organizers to maintain consistency and safety.
• Promote healthy nutrition. A balanced diet supports overall health, strengthens the immune system, and helps manage conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. For people with dementia, good nutrition also contributes to stable energy levels, improved mood, and better brain function. Family caregivers can provide extra support by preparing meals that are easy to eat, encouraging hydration, and making adjustments for changing appetite or swallowing difficulties.
• Create an exercise program. Even short sessions of 20–30 minutes a few times per week can make a meaningful difference in overall health and well-being. Walking, dancing, swimming, gardening, or gentle stretching are all great options that can keep exercise engaging and sustainable. It’s important to consult your loved one’s healthcare provider to develop an exercise plan that is safe and adapted to their unique needs and abilities.

Supporting a loved one with dementia means caring for both mind and body. By giving physical health the same attention as cognitive well-being through regular activity, nutritious meals, and consistent medical checkups families can help their loved ones maintain comfort, vitality, and a better quality of life.

At our Anthem Memory Care communities, residents enjoy regular fitness classes and tailored activities designed to match their individual needs and abilities. We invite you to visit and learn for yourself how we help every resident stay active, healthy, and engaged each day.