Physiotherapy and the care of people living with dementia

Dementia is a major cause of disability and is associated with adverse events such as falls. Physiotherapists play an important role in dementia care. The recent Australian Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety highlighted a number of areas for improvement in dementia care. This thesis sought to improve the understanding of the educational needs of physiotherapists and students working with people with dementia in Australia. It was found that physiotherapists and students lack knowledge and confidence in key areas when working with people with dementia, and highlighted areas for improvement in education and advocacy for the profession.