What is effective physiotherapy for dementia and how do we get there: a qualitative study.

Abstract

Introduction: Dementia is a leading cause of disability. Physiotherapists play a crucial role in caring for people with dementia. However, previous research has found that physiotherapists have low knowledge and confidence working with people with dementia.

Objective: To determine: 1) What are the components of effective physiotherapy care for people with dementia; and 2) What can be done to facilitate the provision of effective physiotherapy care.

Methods: This was a qualitative study using an interpretive description approach. Sixteen physiotherapists experienced in dementia care participated in semi-structured interviews. Researchers analyzed data using thematic analysis.

Results: Two themes were created for each research objective. The themes explaining the components of effective physiotherapy care were: 1) engaging the person with dementia (subthemes: knowing the person with dementia; using knowledge to adapt the approach to successfully deliver physiotherapy treatments; optimizing the physical environment) and 2) collaborative care (subthemes: working with care partners; working as an interdisciplinary team). The themes describing how to facilitate provision of effective care were: 1) Physiotherapists require "greater opportunity for mentoring and education on dementia care" and 2) Physiotherapists must "advocate for the role of physiotherapy in dementia care."

Conclusion: These findings provide important information regarding the components of effective dementia care for physiotherapists and will help guide clinical practice, inform future dementia education, research, and professional organization advocacy initiatives.