There is a relationship between gait (e.g., pace, rhythm, and postural control) and cognition (e.g., attentional control, executive function, and working memory). Patients with Alzheimer’s-dementia and Parkinson’s disease have a decline in both motor and cognitive function.
Prof Lynn Rochester’s research, at the Newcastle University, further suggested that gait abnormality can predict cognitive impairment and dementia, and that early detection is critical. Aerobic exercise and cognitive training, respectively, can help reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease and cognitive function, and improve attentional control and executive function. Further, integrated interventions, such as combined complex motor cognitive training, have been found to be beneficial for improving cognitive function and reducing fall risk.
My Rehab Team offers a range of rehabilitation and physiotherapy interventions that could help with early detection and prevent further motor and cognitive dysfunction associated with dementia and Parkinson’s disease. The Team welcomes referral for clients with dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Our mobile therapy services also include exercise physiology, rehabilitation coach, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech pathology, podiatry, and dietetics. For more information, contact 13004MYREHAB (1300 469 734) or email at info@myrehabteam.com.au.
References:
Australian Physiotherapy Association (2015) Physiotherapy: In Motion. December, 2015. p42
Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici @FreeDigitalPhotos.net Available at: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/ (Accessed 5th of January 2016)
