Six years after his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, 90 years old Zelik (Zel) Bocknek refuses to slow down – and he believes his active lifestyle is key to controlling his symptoms.

Bocknek, a retired business owner from Toronto, Ont., was 84 when he began having minor memory problems, 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 diseasehe was offered the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial studying an experimental dementia drug.

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Since the trial ended 18 months ago, Bocknek has continued take the medicine and he still enjoys his favorite activities, including downhill skiing, painting, and volunteering at the local zoo.

Six years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Zelik (Zel) Bocknek (pictured right with his son), 90, still pursues his passion for skiing. (Zelik Bocknek)

“It’s necessary stay activeboth physically and mentally,” Bocknek told Fox News Digital in an interview. “It’s important to stay busy.”

“Last year was the first time in over 70 years that I didn’t ski because the winter was so mild,” he said. “Fingers crossed this year will be better.”

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Bocknek also regularly that works at the gym to stay in peak skiing shape, he and his wife, Gail Bocknek, told Fox News Digital in an interview.

His favorite exercises are stretching classes and strength training with weights.

Painting became another passion project. Since beginning his paint-by-numbers projects, Bocknek has developed his skills and now paints intricate works of art for his six grandchildren to display in their rooms.

“I’m now on my 75th painting,” he said.

Zail Bocknek is pictured with his wife, Gail. “You have to stay active, both physically and mentally,” Bocknek told Fox News Digital in an interview. “It’s important to stay busy.” (Zelik Bocknek)

Volunteering is also part of his regular routine: Bocknek works as a greeter at the Toronto Zoo, where he welcomes and guides visitors, and also puts in hours at a local hospital.

He also plays bridge regularly with three different groups throughout the week.

Bockneck experienced no further cognitive decline, which he attributes to his busy schedule.

“I am who I am today because I have been very active throughout my life, physically and mentally.”

“I am who I am today because I have been very active throughout my life, physically and mentally” he said.

“And it’s important to be able to laugh: a sense of humor gets you through many difficult times.”

Fighting Alzheimer’s Disease with Exercise

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brainwhich preserves neuron health, according to Dr. Gail Saltz, associate professor of psychiatry at the Weill-Cornell School of Medicine at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

“This includes cognitive functions, memory functions and even centers related to mood,” Saltz, who has not treated Bocknek, told Fox News Digital.

“To be clear, this won’t stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, but it could slow its cognitive effect.”

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Beyond cognition, exercise also helps improve patients’ physical health, including their cardiovascular systemflexibility and muscular systems, Saltz noted.

“Improving or preventing the decline of these body systems also helps the Alzheimer’s patient by allowing them to continue to participate in daily grooming, walking, appointments, feeling better physically, and prolong life“, she added.

Spending time outside in the sun also increases serotonin, which may be beneficial for Alzheimer’s patients, one expert noted. (Zelik Bocknek)

Physical activity can also help prevent nocturnal wanderinga common danger among Alzheimer’s patients due to dysfunction in their circadian rhythms, according to Sherri Snelling, a gerontologist and spokesperson for Comfort Keepers in California.

“Keeping an adult with Alzheimer’s physically active during the day will help create more natural exhaustion so they can sleep better during the night,” Snelling, who also has not treated Bocknek, told Fox News Digital .

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Spend time outdoors the sun also increases serotonin, the expert noted, which can help decrease agitation or “sunset” episodes, which is when patients have angry outbursts, delusions and paranoia at dusk.

Any activity that increases heart rate can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, experts agree.

“Any movement releases endorphins, which are feel-good hormones and natural pain relievers,” Snelling said.

“I’m relaxed and getting on with my life as best I can, for as long as I can.”

Snelling recommended several specific activities that are most beneficial for dementia patients.

“Walking is good – and doing it with help is important, because balance problems can cause a loved one to fall,” she said.

Yoga or tai chi are also recommended for elderly people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Bocknek developed his painting skills and now creates intricate works of art for his six grandchildren to display in their bedrooms. One of his paintings is on display here. (Zelik Bocknek)

“Swimming or water aerobics are also wonderful for older adults: the natural resistance of water is great for muscle strength, and the tactile sensation of water is calming for adults with AD,” said Snelling, adding that it is important for a companion or caregiver. be present for safety reasons.

Make music is also helpful, she said, because musical memory is preserved longest in the brain of someone with Alzheimer’s disease.

Stay social

Socialization and interaction can also help slow dementia-related decline, according to Snelling.

“It has been reported that we can prevent cognitive decline and delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease if we stay mentally active and frequently participate in social activities,” she told Fox News Digital.

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This is another reason why Snelling favors home care.

“Even if they are able, it is important that Alzheimer’s patients remain at home in a familiar environment,” she said.

Another painting by Bocknek is shown here. “I’m now on my 75th painting,” he told Fox News Digital. (Zelik Bocknek)

In the United States, the number of Alzheimer’s cases is expected to increase from six million to 13 million by 2050.

For those who might be experiencing cognitive symptoms, Bocknek says it’s important to take steps to get a diagnosis as quickly as possible.

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“As soon as you feel that there is a problem with your memory or your brain, go to get tested“, he advised.

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Asked if he was concerned about worsening symptoms, Bocknek said: “That doesn’t worry me.”

“I’m relaxed and getting on with my life as best I can, for as long as I can.”