Physical Exercise and the Brain

Physical exercise especially aerobic exercise improves attention, memory and problem solving in serious mental illness. People with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia often have trouble focusing their attention, remembering important information, and solving everyday problems. This is because schizophrenia is a brain disorder. Some brain structures in individuals who have schizophrenia are smaller and various areas of the brain have trouble communicating with one another. However, exercise has been found in multiple studies to improve brain function in schizophrenia and other disorders such as dementia.

With this in mind our staff at Amber Lantern work to incorporate physical activity into the daily lives of our residents to support their treatment goals. House amenities like basketball hoops and putting greens offer opportunities for our clients to get moving while having a good time. We also incorporate neighborhood walks and field trips to keep our residents active.

Get out there and move!!!