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Exercise helps 90-year-old Alzheimer’s patient keep symptoms at bay

Harry November 8, 2024

Six years after Alzheimer’s diagnosis, 90 years old Zelik (Zel) Bocknek refuses to slow down and believes an active lifestyle is the key to keeping his symptoms at bay.

Bocknek, a retired business owner in Toronto, Ontario, was 84 when he began experiencing minor memory lapses, such as forgetting the day of the week and not knowing the answers to basic questions.

After being diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’sHe was offered the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial studying an experimental dementia drug.

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Bocknek has continued since the trial ended 18 months ago take the medicine and still enjoys her favorite activities like downhill skiing, painting, and volunteering at the local zoo.

Six years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, 90-year-old Zelik (Zel) Bocknek (pictured right with his son) still maintains his passion for skiing. (Zelik Böcknek)

“You should keep yourself active“It’s important to stay engaged both physically and mentally,” Bocknek told Fox News Digital in an interview.

“Last year was the first time in 70 years that I didn’t ski because the winter was so mild,” he said. “I’m keeping my fingers crossed that this year will be better.”

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Bocknek also regularly working He and his wife, Gail Bocknek, told Fox News Digital during an interview that they hit the gym to stay in shape while skiing.

His preferred exercises are stretching classes and strength training with weights.

Painting became another passion project. Since starting paint-by-number projects, Bocknek has honed her skills and now draws intricate works of art for her six grandchildren to display in their bedrooms.

“I’m currently on my 75th painting,” he said.

Zail Bocknek was photographed with his wife Gail. “You have to keep yourself active both physically and mentally,” Bocknek said in an interview on Fox News Digital. “It’s important to stay busy.” (Zelik Böcknek)

Volunteering is also part of his regular routine; Bocknek works as a greeter at the Toronto Zoo, where he greets and guides visitors, as well as working hours at a local hospital.

He also plays bridge regularly with three different groups throughout the week.

Bockneck did not experience additional cognitive decline due to his busy schedule.

“I am where I am today because I have been very active physically and mentally throughout my life.”

“I am where I am today because I have been very active throughout my life. physical and mental” he said.

“And being able to laugh is important; a sense of humor gets you through many difficult times.”

We fight against Alzheimer’s with exercise

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brainDr., associate professor of psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill-Cornell Medical School. According to Gail Saltz, it protects the health of neurons.

“This includes centers related to cognitive functions, memory functions and even mood,” Saltz, who is not treating Bocknek, told Fox News Digital.

“To be clear, this does not stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, but it may slow its cognitive impact.”

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Beyond cognition, exercise also helps improve patients’ physical health. cardiovascular systemSaltz drew attention to flexibility and muscular systems.

“Improving or preventing the decline of these body systems also helps Alzheimer’s patients by allowing them to continue activities such as daily care, walking, going to appointments, feeling better physically, and feeling better.” prolong life” he added.

One expert noted that spending time outdoors in the sunlight also increases serotonin, which may be beneficial for Alzheimer’s patients. (Zelik Böcknek)

Physical activity can also help prevent it. night outIt’s a common danger among Alzheimer’s patients because of dysfunction in circadian rhythms, according to Sherri Snelling, a gerontologist and spokesperson for Comfort Keepers in California.

“Keeping an adult with Alzheimer’s physically active throughout the day will help create more natural fatigue so they can get better sleep through the night,” Snelling, who is not treating Bocknek, told Fox News Digital.

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spending time outdoors sunlight The expert noted that serotonin also increases, which may help reduce agitation or “sundowning” episodes, in which patients experience outbursts, delusions and paranoia at dusk.

Experts agree that any activity that increases heart rate can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.

“Any movement causes the release of endorphins, which are ‘feel-good’ hormones and natural painkillers,” Snelling said.

“I’m relieved and I’m moving on with my life as best I can, as best I can.”

Snelling recommended several specific activities that are most beneficial for people with dementia.

“Walking is great, and it’s important to do it with assistance because balance issues can cause a loved one to fall,” she said.

Yoga or tai chi is also recommended. older adults With Alzheimer’s.

Bocknek honed her painting skills and now creates intricate works of art for her six grandchildren to display in their bedrooms. One of his paintings is exhibited here. (Zelik Böcknek)

“Swimming or water aerobics are also great for older adults; the natural resistance of water is great for muscle strength, and the tactile sensation of water is soothing for adults with Alzheimer’s,” Snelling said, adding that this is important for a companion or caregiver. Being there for security.

making music He also said that musical memory is beneficial because it is stored longest in the Alzheimer’s brain.

staying social

Socialization and interaction can also help slow the decline associated with dementia, according to Snelling.

“It has been reported that if we stay mentally active and frequently participate in social activities we can prevent cognitive decline and delay the onset of Alzheimer’s,” he told Fox News Digital.

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This is another reason why Snelling is an advocate of this approach. home care.

“As long as they can do that, it’s important for Alzheimer’s patients to stay at home in a familiar environment,” he said.