Dementia & Delirium Rehabilitation 

Living with dementia or recovering from episodes of delirium presents unique physical and cognitive challenges. At DT Physio, I offer specialist physiotherapy support tailored to individuals experiencing cognitive decline, with a focus on restoring confidence, improving mobility, and promoting independence through safe, structured rehabilitation.

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Understanding Dementia and Delirium
Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, problem-solving, and mobility. Delirium, by contrast, is a sudden and often temporary state of confusion that can arise from illness, infection, hospitalisation, or medication. Both conditions can lead to significant physical deconditioning, reduced mobility, and increased falls risk.

Without timely and appropriate rehabilitation, individuals may lose the ability to carry out basic movements, experience fear or agitation during activity, and become increasingly dependent on others.

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Common Challenges for Patients

• Reduced Mobility & Balance – Difficulty with walking, standing, or turning safely.

• Increased Falls Risk – Poor coordination, postural changes, or difficulty with dual-tasking.

• Disorientation & Confusion – Changes in routine or unfamiliar environments may lead to agitation or resistance to movement.

• Muscle Weakness & Fatigue – Inactivity during illness or hospitalisation can rapidly reduce strength and endurance.

• Behavioural Changes – Anxiety, frustration, or apathy that may limit participation in daily activity.

• Difficulty Following Instructions – Cognitive issues may impact understanding or recall of safety strategies and exercises.

 

How Physiotherapy Can Help

• Functional Mobility Training – Focused exercises to support safe walking, transfers, and standing.

• Routine-Based Rehabilitation – Consistent, familiar approaches help reinforce confidence and reduce anxiety.

• Balance & Strengthening Exercises – Tailored to improve safety and reduce risk of falls.

• Visual & Verbal Cueing – Supportive strategies to help individuals initiate and complete movements.

• Behaviour-Sensitive Approach – Rehabilitation delivered with patience, calmness, and awareness of emotional triggers.

• Environmental Assessment – Advice on adapting surroundings to promote safe and confident movement.

• Engagement Through Familiar Activity – Using simple, meaningful tasks to encourage participation and boost mood.

• Family & Carer Support – Guidance on how to support the individual’s mobility needs with compassion and consistency.

 

By blending physical rehabilitation with an understanding of cognitive and emotional needs, I help individuals with dementia or delirium retain as much independence and mobility as possible — supporting dignity, safety, and quality of life.