Authors

  1. Ross, Christine M. PT, DPT, GCS, CDP, MSCS

Abstract

The prevalence of individuals living with dementia worldwide is expected to increase exponentially; yet these individuals receive minimal recommended quality of care. Physical therapists are a valuable component of the comprehensive medical care team serving individuals with cognitive impairment. Utilization of evidence-based outcome measures to determine optimal care is critical to improving the effectiveness of care for individuals with cognitive impairment, decreasing the variability in the evaluation process. The purpose of this article is to describe functional outcome tools to assist skilled physical therapists with the evaluation process, essential to enhancing the quality of the individualized plan of care.