Far too many of us have seen the sad, steady march of Alzheimer's disease. We know it destroys memory and thinking ability. But what about the physical effects of Alzheimer's, which also are significant?

These physical effects can be addressed through appropriate exercise. And doing so can offer major positive benefits on the quality of life of people with the disease. It also can impact their caregivers. 

There are also benefits beyond the physical. Research shows that regular exercise also can improve memory in people with Alzheimer's. And, if started early, exercise can delay symptoms in those who have the disease but haven't shown signs of it.

Physical therapist Jennifer Nash shares how people with advancing dementia can benefit from exercise. She also discusses the unique role of physical therapy in treating Alzheimer's.

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Jennifer Nash, PT, DPT, is a board-certified neurologic clinical specialist. She is an assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She also treats patients at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Rouvo Center for Brain Health. Nash is a certified dementia practitioner, a certified exercise expert for aging adults, and a multiple sclerosis certified specialist. She is trained in Parkinson Wellness Recovery, Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson disease, and neurodevelopmental treatment of stroke.