Occupational Therapy for Dementia Adelaide

Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of progressive brain conditions that impair memory, thinking, behaviour, and physical abilities. Common challenges include forgetfulness, difficulty completing daily tasks, communication problems, and reduced mobility. The impact varies depending on the type and stage of dementia.

Occupational therapy helps individuals with dementia maintain independence, improve safety, and enhance their quality of life. Therapists assess the person’s abilities, environment, and routines to recommend strategies, modifications, or tools that make daily tasks easier and safer.

• Memory aids: Calendars, reminder alarms, and structured routines to manage cognitive changes.

• Environmental modifications: Adjustments such as improved lighting, grab bars, and decluttering to reduce hazards.

• Adaptive equipment: Tools like shower chairs, dressing aids, or mobility devices to assist with daily tasks.

• Social engagement: Encouraging participation in hobbies or community activities to reduce isolation.

• Caregiver support: Training in safe caregiving techniques and stress management strategies.

Occupational therapy can be beneficial at any stage of dementia:

• Early stage: Focus on maintaining independence and establishing routines.

• Middle stage: Address safety concerns and support daily activities.

• Late stage: Provide strategies for comfort, mobility, and caregiver support.

Early intervention is ideal, as it allows for proactive strategies that can delay the need for higher levels of care.

Occupational therapists help caregivers by:

• Training them in safe caregiving techniques, such as manual handling and task assistance.

• Recommending modifications to the home to ease caregiving tasks.

• Providing emotional support, stress management strategies, and links to community resources.

Common modifications include:

• Installing grab bars in bathrooms and along hallways.

• Improving lighting to reduce shadows and increase visibility.

• Using signage or colour coding to help with navigation.

• Removing tripping hazards, such as loose rugs or clutter.

• Creating calming sensory spaces to reduce agitation.

Yes, occupational therapy can address behavioural changes by identifying triggers and developing strategies to reduce agitation, anxiety, or aggression. For example, therapists might recommend calming activities, modify the environment, or provide routines to minimise stress.

Occupational therapy focuses on improving the individual’s ability to perform meaningful daily tasks and participate in life. Unlike physiotherapy (which emphasises physical rehabilitation) or speech therapy (which targets communication), occupational therapy takes a holistic approach that integrates physical, cognitive, emotional, and environmental factors.

During an initial session, the therapist will:

• Assess the individual’s abilities, challenges, and living environment.

• Identify goals based on the individual’s preferences and stage of dementia.

• Develop a personalised plan, including strategies, interventions, and tools to support daily life.

Subsequent sessions will focus on implementing these strategies and evaluating their effectiveness.

No! We can start working with new clients right away.

Once we have received a referral form with all of your details, we are able to book an Initial Assessment as soon as possible, depending on your availability.

You can find our referral forms here.

If you have any questions prior to referring please reach out to us on 0474 248 081, via our online enquiry form or at or at enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

If you are funded through Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) or Chronic Disease Management (CDM) we need the appropriate referral documentation from your GP.

For all other funding sources you can refer yourself or your loved one directly via our online referral form, or reach out to us on 0474 248 081, via our online enquiry form or at enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

Referring is easy! You can find our referral forms here.

If you have any questions prior to referring please reach out to us on 0474 248 081, via our online enquiry form or at enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

Yes! As a registered NDIS provider, Thrive Health Therapies meets rigorous NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. We are passionately committed to upholding the NDIS Practice Standards, providing high-quality and safe supports and services for NDIS participants.

As a NDIS registered provider, we are also able to offer services to participants whose funds are managed by the NDIA.

As a registered NDIS provider, interpreter services are available free of charge for NDIS participants. Please inform us if you require this service, and we will arrange this for you.

We accept referrals from a wide range of funding sources, including the NDIS, home care packages, Department of Veterans Affairs, Chronic Disease Management (previously known as EPC) and private clients. Learn more about our accepted funding sources.

As a NDIS registered provider we are also able to accept participants who have chosen to have their funds managed by NDIA.

Prices vary between services. Our therapists work with you to ensure you get the best program of services within your budget allocation.

Please contact us for a personalised quote.