The Preventing Loss of Independence through Exercise (PLIÉ, pronounced plee-ay) program is a new exercise program created specially for people with memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, or dementia. It focuses on activities that people can do even with memory loss. This includes:

• Training ‘muscle memory.’ The body can still learn to preform sequences of movements to support daily function  (e.g., sitting, standing, and balancing), even when there is no awareness of learning.
• Mindful body awareness. Paying attention to breathing and in-the-moment bodily sensations may help orient people with memory loss to the present moment and may help reduce feelings of anxiety about the past or future.
• Social connection. As memory declines, in-the-moment social connections with others become increasingly important. Moving as a group, including moving with music, may help increase feelings of well-being.