The Benefits of Allied Health Services for Those With Cognitive Disabilities

Allied health services are a broad range of healthcare services that are provided by professionals other than doctors and nurses. These services can include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and social work.

Allied health services can play a vital role in the care of people with cognitive disabilities. In this article, we explore the many benefits of allied health services for those with cognitive disabilities.

First, let's start with the role physiotherapy plays in mental health.

Physiotherapy and mental health

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on helping individuals recover from physical injuries, manage chronic pain, and improve their overall well-being. While most people think of physiotherapy as a treatment for physical ailments, it also has a significant impact on mental and cognitive well-being.

Physiotherapy and mental health are closely linked and work together to improve overall well-being. Exercise forms a core aspect of any physiotherapy program and the benefits of exercise on mental health are plenty. For example, physiotherapy can:

• Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression

• Improve mood.

• Increase self-esteem and confidence.

• Promote relaxation and reduce stress.

• Enhance cognitive function.

Physiotherapy and cognitive wellbeing

Physiotherapy has shown to also have a positive effect on cognitive well-being by improving brain function, reducing the risk of cognitive decline, and promoting a sense of mental clarity.

Benefits of exercise on mental health of those with cognitive disabilities

Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain, leading to improved emotional states. This has shown to help people with cognitive disabilities improve their attention spans, memory and executive functioning. Furthermore, exercise provides opportunities for social interaction, and fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion. Overall, incorporating exercise into the lives of people with cognitive disabilities can significantly improve their mental health and overall quality of life.

Pain management

Pain management is another area where physiotherapy can help. Chronic pain can have a negative effect on cognitive function, leading to impaired memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities. By reducing pain, physiotherapy can improve cognitive function and enhance mental clarity.

Examples of physiotherapy exercises for mental health and wellbeing

Now that we’ve seen the many benefits of allied health services for individuals with cognitive disabilities, let’s look at some physiotherapy exercises that can help enhance mental well-being: 

Aerobic Exercises (Brisk walking, Jogging)

• Feel the Beat and Beat the Blues

• A Natural Mood Booster

• Get Moving and Get Happy

Strength Training (Weightlifting, Resistance band exercises)

• Build Your Body and Your Mood

• Lift Your Spirits with Strength Training

• Get Stronger and Feel Better

Balance and Coordination Training

• A Surefire Way to Improve Your Mental Well-Being

• Stay Steady

• Improve Your Balance and Your Mood

Mind-Body Exercises (Yoga, Tai chi)

• The Key to a Healthy Mind and Body

• Relax, Relieve Stress, and Improve Your Mood

• Find Your Inner Peace with Mind-Body Exercises

Stretching Exercises

• Stretch Your Way to a Better Mood

• Release Tension and Improve Your Mental Well-Being

• Stretch and Feel Good

Physiotherapy is a holistic approach to wellness that addresses both physical and mental health. By incorporating these exercises into treatment plans, physiotherapists can help patients towards achieving optimal wellbeing.

When performing exercises for mental health it is imperative to ensure the right technique and form to avoid discomfort and injury in the long run. Pro-Form Physiotherapy is a trusted NDIS physiotherapist service that can help equip you with everything you need to live a sustainable pain free life. When you consult with Pro-Form, we provide you with a custom exercise program tailored to your specific needs to help you get to where you want to go.

Testimonials from NDIS participants

Testimonials from people who have benefited from allied health services can be a valuable resource for those who are considering these services. Testimonials can provide insights into the experiences of others, and they can help to give people a better understanding of what to expect from allied health services.

• “I’ve hated movement since I started struggling with depression. It was always bed or nothing, despite being very active as a kid. After finally receiving the freedom to afford help for my physical health, I realised movement was changing my mental health for the better, by becoming more resilient and learning to love what my body could do for me and how it can still move, despite challenges.”

• “I predominantly do strength and resistance training with both Jordy and Andy facilitating this. Each session is different as we adjust according to my body’s needs, and mental health status. I wouldn’t have a clue what any of the actual movement practices are called, but just getting that feeling of “strength” when my muscles are finally active, and that heart pumping spike of endorphins, just leaves me craving for more. Despite all this, the main aim is to just get moving, so maybe a gentle walk and talk, and some stretching when the world is too much.”
  

• “The team at Proform have made a huge impact on my life and even though it’s my own recovery, recovery would not be possible without the support of these gems.”

Allied health services can play a vital role in the care of people with cognitive disabilities. Physiotherapy is one example of an allied health service that can have a positive impact on mental and cognitive well-being. 

Pro-Form has partnered with Maple Community Services to ensure no one is exempt from experiencing the many benefits of allied health services. If you’re looking to learn more about how physiotherapy can help you with your mental health or cognitive function, chat to one of our team at Pro-Form today!

Proform Physiotherapy

Pro-Form Physiotherapy provides high-quality healthcare, collaborating with participants to assess their functional capacity and create custom plans. Their mission is to connect people with disabilities to providers who understand their unique needs, offer flexible plans, and maximise their budget. Their mobile service offers flexibility to receive care at home or in the clinic to improve their quality of life.

Maple Community Services

Maple Community Services is a disability service provider that offers a range of supports to people of all abilities. They committed to providing high-quality, individualised support to people with disabilities and they also work with a diverse range of cultural and language backgrounds. They have a team of experienced and qualified staff who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of their clients.

Maple Community Services and Proform Physiotherapy

Maple Community Services and Pro Form Physiotherapy have partnered to provide exceptional allied health and Disability Support Services to the NSW community. This close working relationship allows us to ensure our participants receive the highest quality of services available. With the support of a Maple Community Services Support Coordinator and the expertise of Pro Form Physiotherapy’s Allied Health professionals, we can develop clear and effective plans for our clients that meet their unique needs and goals.

Looking for NDIS physiotherapy support?

Consult with one of our trusted physios today