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A new approach for physical therapists in the long term care of Alzheimer patients

Community Health and Long Term Care Department, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Seattle, Washington

Throughout the progressive stages of dementia, there is a need for an interdisciplinary team approach in the long term care of Alzheimer patients. This article describes the need for a shift in our therapeutic strategies and will address ways in which the physical therapist can positively impact Alzheimer patient care and reduce caregiver burden, whether the patient is at home or in an institution. This can be accomplished in part by:

• • Designing a daily exercise program;
  
• • Making modifications to the environment to decrease sensory stress andfacilitate autonomy;
  
• • Designing appropriate cues to help the patient with activities of daily living;
  
• • Evaluating home safety, equipment needs and falls prevention; and finally
  
• • Teaching safe transfers and bed-bound care.
  

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