When we think about dementia care, we often focus on memory and cognitive support. But there’s another crucial element that can dramatically improve quality of life: movement. The ability to walk confidently, stand independently, and move freely around one’s home isn’t just about physical health; it’s about maintaining dignity, independence, and connection to the world around us.
John’s Transformation: A Year of Patient Progress
When we first met John, a quiet gentleman in his late 80s living with dementia, he was reluctant to engage in any form of exercise. Each step he took was hesitant and uncertain. His legs lacked strength, his hands trembled as he reached for support, and even standing from a chair seemed daunting. Walking just a few metres left him breathless and anxious, reinforcing his fear of movement.
This is something we commonly see—many people with dementia experience physical decline over time, both in strength and confidence. But it doesn’t have to be the end of the road.
John began working with one of our experienced physiotherapists who took a compassionate, gradual approach to care. Walking was broken down into small, achievable parts: shifting weight, lifting one foot, then placing it forward. This “part practice” method allowed John to focus on each element of movement without feeling overwhelmed, slowly rebuilding his confidence and physical control.
The transformation didn’t happen overnight. Over more than a year of consistent therapy, gentle encouragement, and repetition, these building blocks began to form smoother, more natural walking patterns. Today, John walks with noticeably greater ease. He rises from a chair more quickly, takes steady steps, and no longer shivers with uncertainty. Most importantly, he no longer avoids therapy; instead, he welcomes it.
While John still needs some support and can’t yet walk outside his home independently, he’s gained something invaluable: the confidence to move freely inside his own house. He’s no longer confined to sitting in a chair all day, waiting for help to arrive.
The Ripple Effects of Movement
The benefits of improved mobility extend far beyond the physical act of walking. When someone living with dementia can move more independently, it creates a positive cascade of improvements that touches every aspect of their daily life.
Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved movement promotes better circulation, helps with overall health, and can improve digestion and bowel function, making daily routines more comfortable. The simple act of being able to choose where to sit, when to stand, or how to move around one’s home restores a sense of personal control that’s often lost in dementia care.
Reduced Carer Burden: When someone can stand and walk more independently, it significantly reduces the physical demands on family members and professional carers. No longer needing to lift or provide constant physical support means carers can focus on other aspects of care and connection.
Improved Cooperation: There’s a powerful psychological element at play here. When someone feels confident in their ability to move, they’re more likely to participate in necessary activities like using the toilet, getting dressed, or moving to different rooms. This cooperation isn’t just about physical capability; it’s about maintaining dignity and choice.
Prevention of Complications: Regular movement helps prevent pressure injuries, maintains muscle strength, and supports overall physical health. For someone living with dementia, these preventive benefits can mean the difference between thriving at home and requiring higher levels of care.
The Power of Patient, Personalised Care
John’s journey reminds us that even with dementia, meaningful improvements are possible. The key lies in understanding that progress looks different for everyone and may take time to achieve. Our physiotherapists don’t just focus on exercises; they take the time to understand each person’s unique story, capabilities, and goals.
We employ the same person-centred approach that guides all our care at Therapy Circles. Like the petals of a sunflower, each person’s interests, history, and abilities surround and support their journey towards improved mobility. This may involve incorporating familiar activities into therapy sessions, accommodating preferred routines, or celebrating small victories along the way.
Supporting the Whole Family
We understand that when someone living with dementia struggles with mobility, it affects the entire family. Partners, children, and other family members often find themselves taking on physical caring roles they never expected. By supporting improved mobility, we’re not just helping the person with dementia; we’re helping restore balance and reducing stress for everyone involved.
The confidence that comes from knowing your loved one can move safely around their home, cooperate with daily care routines, and maintain some independence is immeasurable. It allows families to focus on connection, shared activities, and quality time together rather than constant worry about safety and physical care needs.
Looking Forward with Hope
John’s story isn’t unique. It’s a reminder that there’s often untapped potential in every person living with dementia. With the right approach, patience, and professional support, improvements in mobility and independence are possible, even in the later stages of life.
At Therapy Circles, our physiotherapy team specialises in working with people living with dementia and their families. We understand that every small step forward is a victory worth celebrating, and we’re committed to supporting both the person with dementia and their entire care team on this journey.
If you’d like to learn more about how physiotherapy can support your loved one living with dementia, or if you’re ready to explore what’s possible, we’d love to talk with you about working together.
Remember, dementia affects the brain, not the heart, and with the right support, meaningful connections to movement, independence, and joy remain possible.