Is Physiotherapy needed to Support Someone Living with Dementia or Alzheimer’s?

Published on 27 February 2026 at 15:49

 

Receiving a diagnosis of dementia can feel frightening and uncertain — both for the person affected and for the people who love and care for them.

Conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and other forms of Dementia are often thought of in terms of memory loss and confusion. But dementia also affects the body as a whole. Over time, it can negatively impact balance, walking, posture, strength and overall confidence with movement.

These physical changes are sometimes subtle at first for example a slightly slower walk or a bit more hesitation when going down the stairs, needing to use furniture for support. But gradually, they can affect independence and increase the risk of falls.

Physiotherapy cannot stop dementia from progressing — but it can make a meaningful difference to how someone moves, feels, and lives with the condition.

 

 

Why Movement Still Matters

It can be tempting to reduce activity when someone seems unsteady or unsure. Families often say, “I’m worried they might fall, so I try to keep them in the house.”

But the body weakens quickly with inactivity. Muscles lose strength, Balance reduces, Confidence drops and the risk of falls can actually increase.

Regular, supported movement helps to:

  • Maintain muscle strength
  • Preserve joint flexibility
  • Support balance
  • Improve circulation
  • Enhance mood
  • Promote better sleep

Even small amounts of the right kind of activity can help someone remain mobile and independent for longer.

 

The Role of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy for someone living with dementia is never about pushing hard or demanding complicated exercises. It’s about working at the right pace, on the right day, in the right way.

Sessions might include gentle strengthening, practising safe transfers, walking practice, balance work and engaging games adapted to the individual’s energy, concentration and confidence.

Familiarity matters too so seeing someone regularly at the same time and day helps with progression and avoiding fear for maximal engagement and enjoyment. At Evien we also believe lighter is the best medicine so we like to keep things light hearted and have some fun at the same time.

 

 

Guidance for Families and Carers

Caring for someone with dementia is a profound responsibility. It can also be exhausting, emotionally and physically.

There is no perfect way to manage every situation — but small adjustments can make daily life smoother and safer.

Keep communication simple

Short, clear instructions are easier to follow. Demonstrating a movement can be more effective than explaining it. Calm tone matters more than perfect wording.

Work with routine

Familiar times of day are often best for activity. If mornings are clearer, that may be the best time for walking or exercises. Predictability reduces anxiety.

Encourage movement — little and often

It doesn’t have to be formal exercise. Standing up from a chair a few times. A short walk in the garden. Gentle stretching. Consistency matters more than intensity.

Make the environment supportive

Good lighting, clear walkways and appropriate footwear all help reduce risk. Sometimes very small changes can make a big difference.

Protect your own wellbeing

If you are helping with transfers or mobility, seek advice to avoid straining your own back. Accepting professional support is not a failure — it is sensible and protective for both of you.

Most importantly, remember that dignity matters. Focus on what your loved one can do, not just what has changed.

 

You Don’t Have to Manage Alone

Dementia changes life gradually, and families often adapt quietly without realising how much they are carrying.Home physiotherapy provides more than exercises. It offers reassurance, practical guidance, and an extra layer of support. At Evien Physiotherapy, we aim to help individuals living with dementia remain as mobile, safe and confident as possible — while also supporting the people who care for them.

If you are based in Berkshire or Oxfordshire and would like to talk about how home physiotherapy could help someone living with dementia, we are here to listen.

Sometimes, the smallest steps can make the biggest difference.

 

For more information and advice visit the links below 

 

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