The Benefits of Exercise for Individuals with Dementia
Story Cottage Podcast Transcript
Guest: Samantha Stipp, Owner of Through the Ages Fitness
In this episode of the Story Cottage Podcast, we continue our conversation with Samantha Stipp, owner of Through the Ages Fitness. Samantha discusses the powerful connection between movement, cognitive function, emotional well-being, and social engagement for seniors, especially those living with dementia. She shares the key benefits she's seen firsthand and why intentional, movement-based programming is so important.
Story Cottage Interviewer:
Let's go into the benefits of exercise for dementia. Why is physical activity so important for individuals with dementia?
Samantha Stipp:
Yeah, so like you said, we teach classes at Story Cottage. A lot of what we're doing obviously helps them physically, but it’s also important for us to stimulate their brain while teaching. Physical exercise allows them to follow along with the instructor — watching, moving — which engages and stimulates their brain.
The other thing is that a lot of older adults, especially those with dementia, tend to sit for long periods in the same position. Getting them physically moving, improving their posture, and encouraging different movements is really important. Another big benefit is social interaction. They're not just with the instructor — they’re with other residents too. They connect with each other, even if there isn’t much verbal communication. Just being together, watching each other, creates a social bond. As we know, as people get older, isolation can happen. So it’s important to get them out and around others.
Story Cottage Interviewer:
Yeah, that's amazing. What do you think are some of the key benefits you've seen in memory care residents who participate in regular exercise?
Samantha Stipp:
It's always fun to work with individuals with dementia because their physical abilities are often a little lower, so we adapt by slowing things down. But even small movements — like lifting shoulders or legs — lead to big emotional connections. Seeing a smile on their face, hearing laughter, even if we’re being silly — it shows they’re engaged. We also get verbal connections. As instructors, we do a lot of talking and counting. Even if someone isn't physically moving, they're often still counting along, which keeps their brain engaged. Another key benefit is presence. When we’re exercising together, everyone is focused and mindful, staying connected to the moment.
Story Cottage Interviewer:
Yeah, that is amazing. So, next question: How does movement impact cognitive function and emotional well-being in seniors?
Samantha Stipp:
Emotionally, I think it’s similar to anyone — you feel good after you move your body, whether you run 10 miles or just walk for five minutes. I always say, "Any movement is good movement." The emotional response is the feel-good endorphins that both the residents and the instructors experience. Cognitively, we challenge them to move their bodies in different ways — like lifting the left arm and right leg — which requires thinking and brain engagement. Throughout each session, they’re getting both brain stimulation and emotional boosts, and movement helps bring them back into the present moment.
Story Cottage Interviewer:
Very cool. It sounds like everything you guys do is so intentional.
Samantha Stipp:
Yes, exactly.