World Physical Activity Day 2026: Making exercise accessible for older adults living with dementia
6 April 2026
Having co-designed a resistance training exercise intervention with Dementia Singapore, GERI researchers are studying its effectiveness and implementation, while also co-creating practical resources like exercise videos and a how-to manual.
Each year, World Physical Activity Day reminds us of exercise's crucial role in healthy ageing and functional independence. However, the next step – and often, hurdle – is to turn that into regular practice.
A team of GERI researchers have turned their attention towards resistance training for older adults living with dementia, given its promise in supporting cognitive health and overall function. The challenge lies in translating this into an evidence-based exercise programme that is accessible, feasible and effectively delivered within the context of a community care setting and its available resources.
To tackle this, the GERI study team worked with community partner Dementia Singapore to co-design a progressive resistance exercise intervention using minimal equipment, implemented at a dementia day care centre.
Hear from the study’s Principal Investigator Dr Tou Nien Xiang (Research Fellow, GERI) as he shares quick insights on what implementers need to deliver and sustain exercise programmes on the ground, the co-design process with community partners, and the how-to exercise videos and manual that are in the pipeline.
Click through the slideshow below to find out more.
