This section is for physical therapists. Persons with dementia develop
many musculo-skeletal problems that benefit from the assistance of a physical
therapist. Fall injuries and fractures are common problems in middle or
late stage dementia. Your help with safe patient movement can safeguard
the quality of life for older persons with dementia.
| 1. | Persons with dementia develop gait problems in the
middle or late stages of disease. |
| 2. | Mildly demented residents may become unsteady when medically sick
or delirious. |
| 3. | Falls are common in demented residents. |
| 4. | Gait apraxias occur in the late stages of the disease. |
| 5. | Side rails and restraints are not effective for persons with dementia. |
| 6. | Physical therapists must understand the level of intellectual disability
prior to initiating therapy. |
| 7. | Moderate or severely demented residents usually forget your instructions. |
| 8. | Behavioral problems, e.g., aggression, hostility, impulsivity, are
common in mid or late state dementia patients. |
| 9. | Staff or family must be trained on techniques of safe transfer and
ambulation. |
| 10. | Physical therapy can reduce the risk for fractures by strengthening
and safeguarding residents. |
| 11. | Many (10-20%) elderly patients admitted to hospitals have unrecognized
delirium. |
