A atuação da fisioterapia nos diferentes estágios do Alzheimer para manutenção funcional: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to identify scientific evidence regarding the role of physiotherapy in individuals with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) across different stages of the disease, highlighting intervention modalities, clinical applications, therapeutic effects, and contributions to the maintenance of functional capacity. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review with a descriptive design and qualitative approach. The search was conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases between August 2025 and May 2026, using the descriptors Alzheimer's disease, exercise, physiotherapy, physiotherapy modalities, and rehabilitation, combined with the Boolean operator AND. Results: A total of 41 articles were analyzed, identifying different physiotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of AD. Multimodal or multicomponent programs were the most frequently reported interventions, followed by aerobic exercise and cognitive training. The studies revealed a wide variety of instruments for cognitive, functional, behavioral, psychosocial, and muscle strength assessment. A scarcity of research focusing on the advanced stage of the disease was observed, as well as limited specificity in the description of interventions according to the clinical stage. Conclusion: Physiotherapy stands out as a fundamental strategy in the management of AD, contributing to the maintenance of functionality, autonomy, and quality of life. The findings reinforce its role in promoting neuroplasticity and reducing functional decline through multimodal exercises, dual-task protocols, and digital technologies. However, methodological heterogeneity and the lack of protocol standardization highlight the need for more robust longitudinal studies to strengthen evidence-based clinical practice.