The Brain-Body Exercise Supporting Dementia Care with Science and Joy
Dementia touches millions of lives, not only for those diagnosed but the caregivers who support them too.
While there is no cure, innovative programs like Ageless Grace offer real hope by improving quality of life—physically, cognitively, and emotionally.
Today, in an Australian first, I had the privilege of presenting the seated brain fitness program at Dementia Australia’s North Lakes Memory Lane Café.
What a glorious joyous uplifting time we had! But it’s so much more than just as bit of fun (as is Laughter Yoga).
In this article, I share 3 key benefits of Ageless Grace for individuals with dementia and the scientific support behind them.
What is Ageless Grace?
Ageless Grace® is a unique brain-body exercise program designed to be done entirely seated. Its 21 simple yet powerful exercises—known as “tools”—are based on everyday actions like brushing teeth, dancing, or pretending to swim. While it may look like playful movement, each tool is grounded in neuroscience, particularly neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to change and rewire itself.
Let’s explore 3 key benefits of Ageless Grace for individuals with dementia and the scientific support behind them.
1. Boosts Brain Function with Imaginative, Seated Movement
Ageless Grace engages all five primary functions of the brain:
- Strategic planning
- Memory and recall
- Analytical thinking
- Creativity and imagination
- Kinesthetic learning.
In each class, the blend of physical movement and imaginative play stimulates brain regions linked to memory, focus, and creativity.
Research from Harvard University and the University of Illinois shows that aerobic activity can improve memory and executive function by increasing blood flow to critical brain areas like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Add novelty and imagination, and even more of the brain is activated—especially the default mode network which supports memory and identity.
So, while it may feel like child’s play, Ageless Grace is actually helping form new neural pathways, making it a powerful cognitive exercise for dementia care.
2. Improves Physical Mobility, Safely and Gently
Ageless Grace is done seated. That makes it ideal for those with limited mobility or advanced cognitive decline.
But don’t mistake seated exercise for inactivity! These movements work on:
- Joint mobility
- Core strength
- Co-ordination
- Reflex response.
All of these movements are essential for maintaining independence, reducing fall risk, and managing physical symptoms such as tremors or stiffness often seen in dementia.
A 2020 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that dual-task training—exercises combining movement and cognitive challenges—significantly improves balance and mobility in individuals with cognitive impairment.
It’s also well recognised that regular, gentle movement—especially in a safe, seated format—can help reduce blood pressure, manage pain, and improve mood.
3. Enhances Emotional Wellbeing and Social Connection
Ageless Grace isn’t just functional—it’s fun! Laughter, music, creativity, and shared moments are central to every session. There’s no pressure to “get it right,” which makes the experience uplifting and inclusive.
In a dementia context, where anxiety, isolation, and apathy can be common, this joyful engagement makes a big difference.
Scientific studies have found that music and rhythm-based movement can reduce agitation, depression, and even aggression in people living with dementia. Music activates emotional centres of the brain that remain accessible even in later stages of cognitive decline.
What’s more, the shared experience of Ageless Grace classes brings everyone together.
Why Ageless Grace Works for Dementia Care
Ageless Grace is not a miracle cure—but it is a meaningful, evidence-based tool that can help those living with dementia lead more joyful, connected, and engaged lives.
Whether you’re living with a diagnosis of dementia, a caregiver or an activity coordinator, Ageless Grace is a beautiful way to bring movement, memory, and meaning back into everyday life.
For more information about Ageless Grace classes that I run within the City of Moreton Bay and northern Brisbane suburbs, please check my Facebook page or go to the Community Wellness Programs page of this website.
Further afield, find out more about Ageless Grace Australia or Ageless Grace internationally.
While best known as Queensland’s leading trainer in laughter yoga, HeatherJoy Campbell is a certified Ageless Grace brain fitness educator.