At Turner Home, we recognize the significant role that physical exercise plays in promoting both physical and mental well-being. For nearly 2 years we have been working with City Rehab, a specialized physiotherapy clinic that uses innovative care plans, treatment strategies, and outcome measures to help our residents achieve their goals.
We are thrilled to share a case study that highlights the positive impact of exercise on one of our residents, who has experienced improvements in his physical health, mental health, and overall sense of well-being through regular exercise.
Background
The resident in question suffers from a range of health conditions, including schizoaffective disorder, dementia, ischemic heart disease, and gastritis. His ischemic heart disease, caused by a reduction of blood flow to the heart due to coronary artery disease, was a primary concern. Additionally, the resident struggled with mental health issues such as paranoia, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
Over approximately six months, our physiotherapist worked with the resident to build up his exercise tolerance and reinforce the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Despite challenges such as the resident's diagnosis of dementia, a strong relationship was built between the therapist and the resident, who showed motivation and commitment to participating in weekly exercise sessions.
Results
As a result of regular and consistent exercise, the resident has experienced several improvements in his physical and mental health. He has lost weight, increased his overall strength, and demonstrated progress in various exercises targeting balance, strength, and mobility. Furthermore, his mental health has improved, with a decrease in the frequency of poor mental health days.
Conclusion and Implications
This case study underscores the powerful impact that exercise can have on overall well-being. By promoting physical health, exercise can also contribute to improved mental health and a greater sense of well-being. We are committed to providing our residents with opportunities to engage in regular exercise and experience the many benefits it offers. We hope that this case study inspires others to prioritize exercise and embrace its positive impact on their lives.
To further support the positive impact of exercise on mental health, here are some additional statistics:
· A meta-analysis of 25 studies found that exercise reduced symptoms of depression in adults (1).
· Regular exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, which is essential for maintaining good mental health (2).
· Exercise has been found to increase levels of endorphins and serotonin, neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in mood regulation (3).
· A review of multiple studies concluded that physical activity is an effective strategy for reducing anxiety (4).
· Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function, including memory and attention, which can have a positive impact on mental health (5).
References:
Fox, K. R., James, J. A., & Pang, J. (2018). Exercise for depression: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Affective Disorders, 238, 255-264.