Dementia
Dementia and other cognitive dysfunctions can be addressed through physical, occupational, and speech therapy treatments at delta plus.While there, unfortunately, is no known cure for such ailments, physical, occupational and speech therapy can help manage and maintain certain problem areas that a patient may be experiencing, such as balance, motor function, incontinence, or mobility. For more information on how Delta Plus Rehab can help and assist patients with dementia.
How can physical, occupational and speech therapy help dementia?
The main goal of physical, occupational, and speech therapy is to improve the patient’s quality of life, which is exactly what we can do for dementia patients. In many cases, participating in physical, occupational and speech therapy can even help in slowing the cognitive decline in patients with dementia, as light exercises and activities help in increasing blood flow to the brain and keeping it alert.
​
Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can also decrease the fall risk of dementia patients. Many patients suffering from dementia begin to lose their mobility, causing balance and gait issues. This can be addressed and improved with the help of one of our physical, occupational, and speech therapists at our at-home physical, occupational, and speech therapy practice in delta plus, thus decreasing the risk of fall-related injuries. For patients losing their motor function, specific motor function training can help enhance physical movements, stabilize posture, and improve body mechanics. Additional treatments, such as manual therapy or pelvic floor rehabilitation, can also help improve common conditions in dementia patients, such as arthritic pain, osteoporosis, or incontinence.
​
Perhaps the most unconsidered aspect of physical, occupational, and speech therapy for dementia patients is the social benefits that come along with it. By establishing a personal connection, physical, occupational and speech therapists can encourage dementia patients to both develop new relationships and build strong social connections over time. This can also help with relieving stress during treatments and creating a more comfortable experience overall.
How are treatment plans created?
One of our physical, occupational and speech therapists at delta plus physical therapy practice in delta plus will work closely with the dementia patient’s primary physician and/or caregiver in order to arrive at the best possible treatment plan. The patient’s personal needs, medical history, and health restrictions will also be taken into account when creating a treatment plan. Patients will undergo an evaluation to determine any problem areas that may need to be worked on, and our physical, occupational, and speech therapists will design an individualized treatment plan based on their needs and the information collected.
​
At Delta plus, we understand that cognitive dysfunctions require personalized care. We strive to build treatment plans around a patient’s abilities and interests. For example, some dementia patients may be driven by a favorite activity or pastime, such as playing cards or looking at old pictures. By incorporating these hobbies into treatments, we can help decrease stress, and increase both comfort and emotional development.
​
If you know someone suffering from dementia who could benefit from physical, occupational, and speech therapy treatments, contact Delta Plus today. We’ll help them receive the help they need and work hard to improve their overall quality of life.
