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Table 2 Mechanisms of action for physical activity and dementia

From: Physical activity for people with dementia: a scoping study

Mechanism of action

Description

Vascular

Exercise could restore cerebral hypoperfusion, the decrease of the perfusion of the blood into the brain

Neurochemical

Exercise increases endorphin and serotonin levels in the brain, which may in turn increase the functioning of the central nervous system and enhance cognitive performance

Cognitive reserve

Reduction in cognitive deficits is achieved by activating brain plasticity and enhancing synaptogenesis and neurogenesis

Stress

Physically active individuals have more positive emotional feelings, which reduce stress and lead to lower susceptibility to cognitive impairment

Functional

Facilitates acquisition of spatial learning and memory