06/05/2025
Physiotherapy & Dementia:
Movement is Medicine at Every Stage
Today, a new care home we’ve started working with asked us a thoughtful question: “Do you exclude people with dementia or cognitive decline from physiotherapy?”
The short answer is no - in fact, quite the opposite.
Dementia is a neurological condition that affects far more than memory. It can lead to significant physical changes, such as poor balance, altered muscle tone, and reduced mobility. The less a person moves, the greater the risk of pain, joint stiffness, muscle tightness, falls, pressure sores, and increasing dependence.
These physical challenges often lead to distress, anxiety, or behavioural changes, especially when someone is unable to express their discomfort with words.
This is exactly where physiotherapy comes in.
At JLinks, we believe in the power of movement at every stage of life, including when someone is living with dementia.
Our physios are trained not just to treat conditions, but to understand the person behind them.
That means:
• Encouraging safe, supported activity to help maintain mobility and independence for as long as possible.
• Promoting circulation and vascular health, because good blood flow helps keep brain tissue healthier for longer.
• Training carers in safe movement techniques that reduce distress, build trust, and prevent injury.
• Supporting people with gentle, regular repositioning to prevent pain, skin breakdown, and joint / muscle contractures.
• Helping individuals sit more comfortably, move with dignity, and experience moments of calm through therapeutic handling.
This is a huge area where we are finding physiotherapy is underutilised and something we are passionate about making a difference.
Last week we undertook team training on how we can prevent problems associated with poor skin and pressure management with people living with dementia.
We do not exclude people with dementia- We promote physiotherapy and movement because it brings value to their lives.
If you’re a care home, family member, or professional wondering how to support someone living with dementia, please get in touch. We’d love to support you.
07951025208