A NEW project aimed at encouraging people with dementia to get active has launched in Glasgow.

The Alzheimer Scotland Active Programme will offer easy exercise and chair aerobics to those affected by the condition at Glasgow Club Castlemilk.

Sessions are delivered to music from artists such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and The Andrew Sisters to encourage members to sing along and reminisce.

Prompted by recent research, which revealed regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing dementia and limit the onset of symptoms for those already diagnosed, the programme has been launched as a joint partnership between Glasgow City Council's arm-length sporting and cultural wing Glasgow Life and Alzheimer Scotland, which provides support and advice from those affected by the condition.

A report by the ­Department of Health, Social Services, and the Public Safety 2011, named 'Start Active Stay ­Active', found that older adults who participate in any amount of physical activity gain health benefits including maintenance of ­cognitive function.

People with dementia and their carers can also become ­isolated as result of the condition and ­existing projects from Alzheimer Scotland has shown benefits of inclusion and other groups in the south of the city,

It is being run as part of the Silver Deal Active classes run at Glasgow Club's across the city for the over 60s.

People who attend the sessions can find out information on support for people ­affected by Alzheimer's and dementia.

Councillor Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow Life, said: "Glasgow Life is ­always looking for ways to serve all of Glasgow's citizens as best as we can. Through the Alzheimer Scotland Active Programme, our existing programmes, such as Silver Deal Active, can continue to grow and improve.

"With the latest research showing how beneficial keeping ­active can be for those affected by Alzheimer's and dementia, this new programme will enhance Glasgow Life's many existing activities, ensuring we have the very best support for those who need it."

Linda Tod, dementia activity and training co-ordinator, said: "The latest research on how best to manage and combat the effects of Alzheimer's disease and dementia and also help ward off the condition shows again how important it is to remain active in older age.

"We have developed the Alzheimer Scotland Active Programme to utilise this research development and to make sure we provide the very best service to Glaswegians affected by these conditions."

In January, the Evening Times launched the Active 2014 campaign which aims to improve the health of Glaswegians in the year of the Commonwealth Games and build a lasting legacy of physical wellbeing.

matty.sutton@ eveningtimes.co.uk