June is recognized as Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia that affect millions of individuals and families worldwide.
With more than 6 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer’s, this month serves as a reminder to promote brain health, early detection, and compassionate care, especially for those navigating life with memory loss.
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, early intervention and supportive therapies can make a meaningful difference in quality of life, mobility, and independence. One highly effective, yet often overlooked tool is home physical therapy.
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Its Impact
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, reasoning, and physical functioning. As the disease advances, many individuals experience:
Difficulty with coordination and balance.
For individuals with Alzheimer’s, changes in the brain can affect how the body controls movement. This may lead to difficulty with coordination, the ability to smoothly and accurately move different parts of the body and balance, which helps keep a person upright and steady while walking or standing.
Increased risk of falls and injuries. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it can affect a person’s memory, judgment, vision, coordination, and balance all of which are crucial for moving safely. These changes can make everyday tasks, like walking, standing up, or turning around, more difficult and unpredictable.
As a result, individuals with Alzheimer’s are at a much higher risk of falling, which can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, or hospitalization. Even minor falls can significantly reduce independence and confidence.
Reduced muscle strength and endurance.
Over time, individuals with Alzheimer’s may experience weakened muscles and lower physical stamina due to decreased activity levels, changes in brain function, and the natural effects of aging. This means everyday tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing for extended periods can become more tiring and difficult.
Reduced strength affects a person’s ability to move safely and confidently, while reduced endurance makes it harder to stay active without becoming fatigued.
Decreased ability to perform daily activities (ADLs).
As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals often experience difficulty with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)—the basic tasks we do every day to take care of ourselves. These include things like bathing, dressing, eating, using the bathroom, and moving around the home safely.
Cognitive decline, along with physical challenges like poor coordination, weakness, or memory loss, can make these tasks confusing or unsafe. This loss of independence can be frustrating for both the person and their caregivers.
Maintaining physical activity and a structured routine is vital.
The Benefits of Home Physical Therapy for Alzheimer’s Patients
1. Safe, Familiar Environment Home is a place of comfort, and for those with Alzheimer’s, familiar surroundings can reduce anxiety and confusion. In-home therapy allows patients to receive care without the stress of travel or new environments.
2. Fall Prevention & Balance Training Falls are a leading cause of injury in those with cognitive decline. Physical therapists can implement fall prevention programs, teach safe mobility techniques, and recommend assistive devices or home modifications.
3. Customized Movement & Strength Plans Gentle, guided exercises help preserve mobility, reduce stiffness, and maintain muscle tone. Even light physical activity can improve circulation, joint health, and mood — all crucial for those in cognitive decline.
4. Support for Caregivers Therapists can educate caregivers on safe transfer techniques, positioning, and how to encourage movement without frustration. This empowers families to support their loved ones while protecting their own physical and emotional well-being.
5. Cognitive Engagement Through Movement Simple, repetitive tasks combined with movement (like clapping, marching, or stretching) may help stimulate brain function. PT sessions also help create structured routines, which are essential for those living with dementia.
Movement is Medicine — Even for the Brain
Research shows that physical activity supports cognitive health by increasing blood flow to the brain and reducing inflammation. For individuals with early to mid-stage Alzheimer’s, regular movement may help slow physical decline and improve overall quality of life.
In-home physical therapy ensures that movement remains safe, accessible, and adapted to each stage of the disease. Whether it’s practicing getting in and out of bed, walking with supervision, or building strength through chair exercises, these small actions add up to greater independence and confidence.
This June — Move with Purpose, Care with Heart
Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of both memory and mobility. If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, consider the many ways home physical therapy can provide strength, structure, and support all in the comfort of home.
Interested in learning more about home physical therapy for cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s?
Reach out today to schedule a consultation with Kinetic Therapy Service at 580-279-1928 and discover how we can support you and your loved ones on the journey ahead.