# For People With Dementia, Exercise and Touch Therapy May Ease Mood

*Effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for older adults with dementia: An umbrella review.*

- **Evidence Level**: Moderate
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article, Review
- **Journal**: International journal of nursing sciences
- **Sample Size**: N/A (review of 12 reviews covering 147 trials)
- **Authors**: Saito T, Shimizu N, Yao L
- **Published**: 2026-06-22
- **Topics**: dementia, non-drug therapy, mental health
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnss.2026.06.008
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42521388/

## Summary

Looking at dozens of trials, non-drug approaches gave small but steady improvements in agitation, depression, and anxiety for people with dementia. Thinking skills got a modest boost too. Quality of life didn't change. The most consistent helpers were tech-based tools, massage and touch therapy, and physical exercise.

## Practical Takeaway

This review suggests exercise and touch therapy may help mood in people with dementia.

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_Canonical: https://longevity-germany.com/en/research/for-people-with-dementia-exercise-and-touch-therapy-may-ease-mood · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-06-22_