Reimagining Dementia: How Allied Health Can Help Residents Stay Strong and Engaged

Of course, I’ve never experienced what it’s like living with dementia. But I’ve been around it enough to know how all-consuming it can be.

For the person experiencing it, their families, and the Aged Care teams walking alongside them, the journey can be equal parts confusing, exhausting and, on occasion, sprinkled with moments of unexpected brilliance (like a memory from 1962 that happened like it was yesterday).

But Dementia support doesn’t have to be all about decline, frustration and paper-thin patience. With a bit of creativity, a whole lot of compassion, and the right Allied Health professionals by your side – we can reimagine dementia support entirely.

Wait… what does “reimagining dementia” actually mean?

At Plena Healthcare, it means ditching the “oh well, that’s just what happens” approach and replacing it with something far more human: Compassion. Rights. Reablement.

We believe every person, regardless of cognitive change, has the right to stay active, feel purposeful, and connect meaningfully with the world around them. And that’s where Allied Health gets to shine.

In a recent article, “United for dementia care: Allied health takes centre stage”, Dr Isabelle Meyer, Dementia Training Australia (DTA) Executive Director, told Hello Leaders the organisation recognised there is a significant gap in acknowledging and engaging with allied health professionals across Australia. “Allied health professionals in Australia have a major role to play in supporting someone at diagnosis and post-diagnosis to ensure we can do our utmost to improve their quality of life,” Dr Meyer shared. “It becomes a critical thing when we’re thinking about person-centred care, to think about who else apart from a general practitioner, neurologist and gerontologist might be involved in supporting someone living with dementia.”

Activities designed to support and enrich

Gone are the days of flicking through the same dog-eared Women’s Weekly or sitting through a game of bingo nobody remembers starting. Our therapy teams – Physios and OTs deliver group and individual activities that do more than just “fill the calendar.”

We use movement, music, tactile engagement and communication cues to create activities that support identity, stimulate memory, and spark joy (yes, even if it’s just for 30 minutes before the next nap). It’s not just therapy – it’s meaningful connection.

Stay engaged, comfortable and connected

Dementia can mess with a lot of things – speech, appetite, posture, balance, just to name a few. That’s where Plena steps in, playing a role in keeping residents switched on and comfortable. Physios at Plena work with dementia residents to keep muscles moving and confidence growing. Through tailored exercise programs and gentle mobility work, we help residents stay on their feet for as long – and as safely – as possible.

More than healthcare – it’s human care

At Plena, our approach to dementia support is more than just clinical boxes ticked. It’s about acknowledging the person behind the diagnosis, and giving them every chance to stay connected – to themselves, to others, and to a life that still has rhythm and richness.

We believe Allied Health has a critical role to play in turning aged care into engaged care.

Want to see how we bring reablement and compassion to life in your aged care home? Reach out to the team at Plena Healthcare – where Allied Health isn’t an extra service… it’s a game-changer.

Article by Ross Cunningham