DEMENTIA
Today, over 46 million people live with dementia worldwide, more than the population of Spain. This number is estimated to increase to 131.5 million by 2050.
Today, the total estimated worldwide cost of dementia is US $818 billion, and it will become a trillion dollar disease by 2018 [World Alzheimer Report 2015 – alz.co.uk].
Dementia is not a specific disease. It is an overall term that describes a group of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person’s ability to perform everyday activities.
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Golf is a moderately intense physical activity and is likely to prevent the onset of cognitive decline and, in those with dementia, can reduce the decline of both mental and physical activity [Lutenschlager et al] |
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With those with dementia, golf has been shown to provide a suitable environment to:
– interact socially – provide appropriate physical activity-encouraging strength and balance – to provide respite for carers |
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For older people, it can provide memories and a focus for social interaction in a community environment |
Golf in Society – Golf’s Affect on the Lives of Those Living With Dementia & Parkinson’s
The GOLF IN SOCIETY project is a social enterprise with a vision to improve the lives of the ageing population by introducing them to the health & wellbeing benefits of golf, particularly in those with dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
We visited one of their sessions at the Lincoln Golf Centre to find out more about their inspiring work.
Find out more at GolfinSociety.com.
Golf & Dementia | University of Bedfordshire, UK
Professor David Hewson & Charlotte Poynter from the University of Bedfordshire are looking at dementia research that could show how golf could be beneficial to people with dementia, along with the caregivers that look after them…
Living With Dementia | UK Care Guide
The UK care guide has shared a range of helpful tips and advice for people living with dementia, whether that is yourself, a family member or a friend.
You can view this on the UK Care Guide website, which contains a fantastic infographic containing all the key facts and details you need.
International Golf Study to Research Health and Wellbeing Impacts On Golfers With Disabilities
1st June 2023
Golfers with disabilities invited to take part in a new academic study looking at golf's effect on quality of life and life satisfaction...
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RESEARCH: Golf Outperforms Nordic Walking in Improving Cardiovascular Health in Older Adults, Study Finds
8th February 2023
Researchers in Finland find acute bouts of aerobic exercise improved cardiovascular health in older adults more than Nordic walking and walking...
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‘Golf On Prescription’ Pilot Launched in Fife, Scotland
19th January 2023
A pioneering health initiative has been piloted in Fife with golf ‘prescribed’ for individuals to encourage a more active lifestyle...
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