THE BENEFITS OF EXCERCISE CONT

Today, I wish to continue the exercise theme and the benefits to me of the same.

Initially, six years ago, the extent and duration of the daily exercise undertaken was extremely limited and  was confined, at the time and for the first 12 months, to a gentle walk along the beach. This gradually built up, in the following 18 months, to going with Blossom for daily walks in the wooded area near home. In addition, a twice weekly swim in a local pool was added to the self devised exercise programme. Walking was involved both too and from the pool. I could no longer drive, due mainly to concerns regarding the lack of spacial judgement and reflexes / reaction times.

Our move to the current home in the hills, facilitated a gradual increase in the amount of walking undertaken, to the present levels, combined with a weekly swim. In the past four years there have been two further TIAs. However, a rapid recovery, following each one, did not interrupt the daily routine for long. In addition, a limited amount of gardening is undertaken.

The significance of ensuring that I can undertake the above daily exercise routine is vital, as far as I am concerned. It has provided physiological benefits, including a stone weight loss and reduced breathlessness. Just as significant and equally beneficial, has been the psychological benefit the solitude and pressure free walks over the meadows with Blossom provide. Issues are able to be thought through, in a time free manner, facilitating a philosophical approach.

I have recently considered what the situation would be and how I would cope if, for whatever reason, I was no longer able to undertake the current level and type of exercise. It is a question that I do not find easy to contemplate. However, I do appreciate there are many dementia sufferers who can no longer undertake the activities that they previously could. In summary, my response to this question is to continue to adopt the current approach i.e. making the most of all the faculties and abilities I have available to me at the time.

The longer the gradual delay to the increase in the debilitating and incapacitating effects of the disease can be
achieved, the better. I am currently of the opinion, that in my case, exercise is greatly assisting the achievement of this objective. 

JSAFGA