Exercise Beats Drugs for Dementia

Dr. Deborah Barnes at the American Academy of Neurology observed that “Currently available drugs do not stop or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. They are associated with small improvements in cognitive function but they have minimal impact on physical function, quality of life, and caregiver burden.” Exercise has benefits in all these functions in patients with mild to moderate dementia. Why isn’t regular exercise on the top line of the prescription pad? Good question. See Family Practice News, April 15, 2013, p.1, 16