Goal: Ease discomfort • Prevent stiffness & pressure sores • Support circulation • Maintain dignity • Reduce agitation

• Sessions: 1–3 minutes, very short
• Completely caregiver-assisted
• Absolute focus on comfort, calm and safety
• Slow, predictable, soft movements
• No standing or unsupported sitting
• Stop immediately if there is pain, fear or resistance
• Speech may be minimal — touch, tone and softness matter more

These movements prevent painful joint tightening (contractures).

All movements: 3–5 times only, slow, gentle.

• Support elbow and wrist
• Lift arm slightly outward
• Lower slowly

• Bend and straighten
• Support the joint fully

• Open/close hand
• Lightly move each finger

• Bend knee toward chest gently
• Straighten leg slowly

• Up/down movement
• Soft ankle circles

Purpose: Prevents stiffness, pain, and pressure-area damage.

Changing body position protects skin, lungs and comfort.

• Side → back → other side
• Always use pillows for support

• Pillow under calves (keeps heels off bed)
• Soft cushion under arms
• Keep head slightly raised for breathing and swallowing

• Gently position shoulders back
• Helps breathing and prevents tight curling

Purpose: Prevents pressure sores, improves breathing and comfort.

Touch helps reduce fear and agitation.

Choose one:

• Warm lotion
• Soft circles on palm and fingers

• Slow, rhythmic, comforting

• Light stroking of hair or forehead

• Move hand slowly to calming music
• Helps connect emotionally

Purpose: Reduces anxiety, supports emotional comfort, improves connection.

Speak softly:
“Breathe in… breathe out…”
Even if they cannot follow, the tone soothes them.

• Light tap on shoulder or hand
• Slow, steady rhythm
• Comforting and grounding

• Slow instrumental, hymns, or familiar songs
• Helps regulate their breathing naturally

Purpose: Helps settle agitation and makes the person feel safe.

Repeat this small cycle 2–3 times daily:

• Passive arm & hand movements
• Hand massage

• Leg/knee PROM
• Repositioning
• Calming music

• Shoulder/neck comfort stretch
• Slow breathing support
• Reposition for sleep comfort

Small, frequent comfort movements are more helpful than long sessions.

• Never force movement
• If there is resistance, stop
• Keep voice low, soft and soothing
• Warm hands before touch
• Move joints slowly and in natural directions
• Check for pain signs: facial tension, moaning, stiffening
• Keep skin clean, dry, moisturised
• Always support all joints
• Ensure room is warm and calm

Even in late dementia, gentle movement:

• Prevents painful contractures
• Reduces pressure sores
• Improves sleep
• Helps breathing
• Reduces agitation and restlessness
• Increases emotional comfort
• Supports dignity and love through touch