Implementation of Walking Exercise Programs for Nursing Home Residents with AD.

Traditional exercise programs for older adults may not be suitable for frail, deconditioned nursing home residents with AD. Adaptations for this population include self-paced walking, use of assistive devices, rest as indicated, redirection when distracted, and engagement in conversation to increase willingness to participate. Appropriate footwear, monitoring response to the exercise, removal of fall hazards and use of a gait belt are suggested. Two studies of the effect of a program of regularly scheduled assisted walking on mobility and function of nursing home residents with AD are reported. Results of the first study suggest that participation in a walking exercise program can contribute to maintenance of mobility and that willingness to participate is significantly enhanced by development of a relationship with the intervenor. Preliminary results from the second study suggest that ability to perform the basic activities of daily living may also be supported by this type of exercise.