The OutPOST

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias represent a significant and growing health care burden in the United States. This article describes the implementation of a rehabilitation-driven, interdisciplinary care model and its impact on antipsychotic medication use and emergency department visits among individuals with dementia in skilled nursing facilities.

Recent research involving 1.8 million older adults found that people who started a new sedative medication after leaving the hospital had significantly higher risks of falls, emergency room visits, rehospitalization, and death within the first 30 days after discharge. Talk with your physician about fall prevention and get an outpatient PT, OT, or ST referral today.

The five senses grounding challenge is a simple, evidence-based mindfulness activity that helps individuals reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and refocus attention by engaging all five senses. This activity can be done seated or standing, independently or in a group, and takes 2 to 5 minutes.

Forward walking isn’t bad, it’s just repetitive. Over time, your body adapts to that same pattern. Walking backwards (also called retro walking) flips the script. It challenges your body in ways forward walking doesn’t.

While there is no cure for dementia, there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people living with this condition. Physical activity is one common recommendation. Studies have shown that the type of exercise, duration, and frequency all make a difference. Physical therapy can also provide support and guidance to people with dementia and their caregivers, helping them cope and adapt to the changes and challenges that come with this condition.

Mental health is health. Outpatient physical, occupational, and speech‑language therapy support emotional well‑being by addressing the functional challenges that shape daily life. Through movement, meaningful activity, and effective communication, outpatient therapy helps individuals regain confidence, independence, and participation at every stage of life.