Dementia in the elderly is one of the major causes of disability. Advanced dementia is defined by increasing functional dependence and probably reinforced by physical inactivity. Hospitalization tends to accelerate the deterioration of functional independence. Physical activity programs tend to delay ADL degradation in community-dwelling elderly as well as in demented nursing home residents. However, the impact of an exercise program on ADL performance amongst hospitalized moderately to severely demented elderly on ADL performance remains an open question.
This randomized controlled trial aims to assess the effect of a physical exercise program on ADL performance patients with moderate to severe dementia, hospitalized for behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD). 240 patients, on 2 sites, will attend a 4 week care program. If effective, the program should be integrated in the daily hospital care.