Individuals with Dementia - A Special Target Group in Sports Science: Challenges and Recommendations for Future Studies

When investigating the effectiveness of physical activity in individuals with dementia, it is important to consider their specific characteristics; where previous studies showed limitations. Thus, we developed an appropriate study design we then used in a randomized controlled trial with 319 individuals with dementia. A comprehensive analysis of motor assessments highlighted the importance of adapted procedures and provided initial recommendations. We found no statistically significant Time*Group effects of a multimodal exercise program on motor and gait performance. Exploratory analyses revealed differences in baseline performance between positive, neutral, and negative responders. Furthermore, changes in motor and cognitive performance explained up to 39.4% of the variance in gait changes. Our results and elaborated study design provide a basis for future studies, while simultaneously pointing out the need for further research. Moreover, the limited suitability of standardized exercise and first findings of underlying mechanisms emphasize the importance of considering the individual.