Exercise helps Alzheimer’s patient, 90, keep symptoms at bay

Six years after his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, 90-year-old Zelik (Zel) Bocknek refuses to slow down — and he believes his active lifestyle is key to keeping his symptoms at bay.

Bocknek, a retired business owner in Toronto, Ontario, was 84 when he began experiencing minor memory slips, such as forgetting the day of the week and not knowing the answers to basic questions. After being diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s, he was offered the opportunity to join a clinical trial studying an experimental dementia drug.

Since the trial ended 18 months ago, Bocknek has continued taking the medication and still enjoys his favorite activities, including downhill skiing, painting, and volunteering at the local zoo. His wife, Gail, also shared that he regularly works out at the gym with stretch classes and strength training with weights to stay in prime skiing shape.

Painting has become another passion project for Bocknek, who has progressed from paint-by-numbers projects to complex works of art for his six grandchildren to display in their bedrooms. He is now on his 75th painting and finds joy in creating beautiful pieces for his family.

Volunteering is also a regular part of Bocknek’s routine. He works as a greeter at the Toronto Zoo, welcoming and guiding visitors, and also puts in hours at a local hospital. Additionally, he plays bridge with three different groups throughout the week to keep his mind sharp and engaged.

Despite his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Bocknek has not experienced any additional cognitive decline, which he attributes to his busy schedule. He emphasizes the importance of staying active both physically and mentally to maintain overall well-being.

Dr. Gail Saltz, associate professor of psychiatry at the New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill-Cornell School of Medicine, explains that physical activity can help preserve the health of neurons, cognitive functions, memory functions, and centers related to mood. While exercise may not stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, it can slow its cognitive effects.

Sherri Snelling, a gerontologist and spokesperson for Comfort Keepers in California, adds that physical activity helps improve patients’ physical health, including their cardiovascular system, flexibility, and muscular systems. It can also prevent nighttime wandering and decrease agitation in Alzheimer’s patients.

To stay socially engaged, Bocknek participates in various activities and emphasizes the importance of socialization to slow dementia-related decline. He encourages others experiencing cognitive symptoms to seek a diagnosis as soon as possible and take steps to stay mentally and physically active.

As Alzheimer’s cases are projected to rise in the U.S., Bocknek’s story serves as an inspiration for others to stay active, engaged, and positive in the face of cognitive challenges. By maintaining a busy lifestyle filled with activities that bring joy and fulfillment, Bocknek continues to defy the odds and live life to the fullest.