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a visual reminder of the bathing sequence in the shower can be a big help. Often, it is thoughtful and relatively
understated adaptations like these that redefine the day-to-day wellbeing of residents the most. The key is considering what each individual needs to live as fully and comfortably as possible.
The untold benefits of exercise It is worth remembering that dementia is just one aspect of the complex care landscape. According to a 2025 study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), global cases of Parkinson’s are projected to reach 25 million by 2050.3
This
is more than double the number of cases in 2021, making Parkinson’s the fastest- growing neurological condition in the world today. The steep rise in cases is attributed to people living for longer. While age remains the single biggest risk factor, genetics also influence susceptibility, and environmental exposure to toxins has also been linked to increased risk. Like dementia, Parkinson’s – a movement
disorder of the nervous system that progresses over time – presents a range of complex care requirements, including challenges associated with movement, memory, and motivation. So, with resident independence and quality of care at stake, what practical steps can caregivers take to support the growing number of people living with Parkinson’s? One proven approach is regular exercise,
which offers significant physical and mental benefits. Both Parkinson’s and some forms of dementia are linked to reduced dopamine, a hormone essential for movement, memory, and motivation. Exercise can help stimulate dopamine production in people with Parkinson’s and is widely recommended in care settings. It can also support those living with dementia by easing physical symptoms and helping maintain cognitive function. Research shows that just 2.5 hours of
exercise per week can help people with Parkinson’s manage their symptoms more effectively.4
Activities such as walking, yoga
and tailored exercise programmes can all support mobility, flexibility, balance, strength and overall wellbeing. Despite these benefits, activity levels in England are declining and remain lowest among older adults.5 Muscle mass is another piece of the
complex care puzzle. Strength is one of the most important neurological safeguards we have. And yet, as we age, muscle mass is
naturally lost, impacting balance, reaction times and fall risk. We do less physically, often at the insistence of well-intentioned loved ones, but this mindset can have a profoundly negative effect on our health and wellbeing. Without regular use, muscles atrophy – making basic movement all the more difficult. Given that one in three people with
Parkinson’s will go on to develop dementia,6 exercise has the potential to improve quality of life, both now and in the future, as individual care needs evolve. Simply put, where resident exercise is concerned, everybody wins.
Futureproofing complex care Clearly, the complex care landscape is evolving, and we have only just begun to understand what lies ahead. This makes 2026 the perfect time for CareHomeLife to expand its support to care homes to help them deliver the same level of compassionate, person-centred care to a growing number of residents with complex care needs. Whether it is through long-term care
strategies or thoughtful choices in care- enhancing products that support resident independence and dignity, the conversations we are having today will ensure the residents of tomorrow have access to the quality care they deserve. Now, more than ever, we need to build resilience into our care provision. But building resilience does not have to mean prohibitive costs – it is about making smart, sustainable choices that honour residents and care workers alike. n
References 1 Prevalence and incidence of dementia, Alzheimer’s Research UK (May 2024)
2 Subtypes of dementia, Alzheimer’s Research UK (May 2022)
3 Global cases of Parkinson’s predicted to rise to 25 million by 2050, Parkinson’s UK (May 2022)
4 Physical activity and exercise, Parkinson’s UK 5 Healthy Ageing: physical activity in an ageing society, UK Parliament (August 2025)
6 Parkinson’s disease dementia, Parkinson’s UK
Robert Atherton
Robert is a content strategist at CareHomeLife, which provides care essentials that prioritise people, planet, and pocket to nursing and residential homes across the UK. For over 15 years, he has written and edited health content for local authorities, the NHS, and the social care sector, with a strong focus on spotlighting the incredible work of healthcare professionals and caregivers nationwide.
SCAN HERE To find out how CareHomeLife partners with the care community and learn more about our innovative complex care products, including the ORNAMIN and Nilaqua ranges, visit
carehomelife.co.uk
January 2026
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com 7
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