Affiliation:
1. Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
2. Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros, Brazil
Abstract
Dementia imposes increasing health and economic burdens, being considered one of the most impactful mental health issues among the elderly. Interventions that seek to ameliorate dementia symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients and relatives are both research and treatment priorities. This chapter presents a state-of-the-art overview of the effects of physical exercise and psychological therapies in the treatment of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. The topics will be discussed from a patient-centric perspective, considering real-life experiences in nursing homes, day-care services (DCs), and hospitals. Translating the scientific evidence into more understandable and easy-to-apply information for mental health professionals, stakeholders, and the community at large. Accessible, affordable, acceptable, and efficient interventions are imperative to benefit patients with MCI and dementia and their caregivers.