Neurological Physiotherapy
Dementia
Dementia Rehabilitation Adelaide
Dementia describes a group of symptoms caused by changes affecting the brain. It is not one specific disease, but a term used to describe changes in memory, thinking, behaviour, communication and the ability to complete everyday activities.
While dementia is more common in older adults, it is not a normal part of ageing. Some people may also develop younger onset dementia, with symptoms beginning before the age of 65.
At Advanced Neuro Rehab, our neurological physiotherapists work with people living with dementia to support mobility, physical function, confidence and participation in everyday activities. We provide individualised rehabilitation programs based on each person’s abilities, goals and stage of dementia.
Types of Dementia
There are many different types of dementia, including:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Dementia with Lewy bodies
- Huntington’s disease
- Alcohol-related dementia (Korsakoff syndrome)
The impact of dementia varies from person to person, with symptoms influenced by the type of dementia, stage of progression and individual circumstances.
How Can Dementia Affect Movement?
Although dementia is commonly associated with changes in memory and thinking, it can also affect physical function and mobility.
People living with dementia may experience:
- Difficulty starting or maintaining walking
- Slower or shuffling steps
- Reduced balance and increased falls risk
- Reduced confidence with movement
- Reduced strength and physical endurance
- Difficulty completing everyday activities
These changes can impact independence and participation in activities that are important to the individual.
How Can Neurological Physiotherapy Help With Dementia?
Neurological physiotherapy focuses on supporting safe movement, mobility and participation in everyday activities.
Following an assessment, our physiotherapists develop an individualised rehabilitation program that may include:
- Walking and gait assessment
- Balance rehabilitation and falls prevention strategies
- Strength and endurance exercises
- Mobility and transfer practice
- Exercise programs to support physical activity
- Strategies to improve confidence with movement
- Advice regarding mobility aids or equipment where appropriate
- Education and support for families and carers
The goal of rehabilitation is to support safe participation, maintain physical abilities where possible and help individuals remain as active and independent as possible.
Dementia Rehabilitation Services at Advanced Neuro Rehab
Our services may include:
1:1 Clinical Consultations
A comprehensive assessment to understand your mobility challenges, goals and individual needs. Treatment is tailored specifically to you.
Clinical Rehabilitation Classes
Small group rehabilitation sessions supervised by a physiotherapist, focusing on individualised exercise programs targeting strength, balance and mobility.
Home Visits
For people who have difficulty attending the clinic, home visits may provide an opportunity to work on mobility goals within the home environment and identify strategies to support safety and independence.
Hydrotherapy
An alternative rehabilitation environment where the properties of water may assist with movement, balance and confidence.
Supporting People Living With Dementia and Their Families
Every person experiences dementia differently. Our physiotherapists work with individuals, families, carers and other healthcare professionals to develop rehabilitation strategies that support mobility, safety and quality of life.
If you would like to discuss whether neurological physiotherapy may be appropriate for yourself or a family member living with dementia, please contact our team.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy help someone with dementia?
Neurological physiotherapy may help support mobility, strength, balance and confidence with everyday activities for people living with dementia. Treatment is tailored to the individual’s abilities and goals.
Can physiotherapy help with walking problems in dementia?
Walking changes are common in dementia. Physiotherapy can assess mobility difficulties and provide strategies to support safer and more confident movement.
Can exercise help people with dementia?
A personalised exercise program may support physical function, mobility and overall wellbeing. A physiotherapist can help develop an appropriate program based on individual abilities and safety considerations.
Can physiotherapy help prevent falls in dementia?
Falls risk is influenced by many factors, including balance, strength, mobility, confidence and the environment. Physiotherapy may help address some of these factors through assessment and falls prevention strategies.
Do I need a referral to see a neurological physiotherapist?
In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a physiotherapist in Australia. However, some funding programs or care arrangements may have specific requirements.
