Exercise and physiotherapy for nursing home residents with dementia: practices and preferences

Abstract

In summary, the findings presented in this thesis indicate considerable variation in the delivery of physiotherapy, in particular exercise interventions, to nursing home residents with dementia. The studies in this thesis made it clear that for the future delivery and evaluation of such interventions, both the individual resident and the broader system of formal and informal caregivers should be involved. More research into the effectiveness and safety of such interventions, that should be appropriately dosed and employ all strategies known to enhance participation and adherence, is urgently needed. For the comparability and interpretation of the results of future studies, adherence with the relevant reporting guidelines is essential. Given the scarcity of studies in this area as a

whole, funding bodies and relevant policy makers should prioritize research in this field. Eventually, the insights from this thesis may contribute to the development of effective, evidence-based and person-centered physiotherapy practices for nursing home residents with dementia.