Physical Therapist and Physical Therapist Student Knowledge, Confidence, Attitudes, and Beliefs About Providing Care for People With Dementia: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review.

The review found few studies on physical therapist students, and those that existed were survey-based rather than interview-based, limiting depth. Findings may be more generalizable to qualified physical therapists than students. Some included studies used non-validated or outdated questionnaires. The review could not separate findings by clinical setting or therapist experience level due to the low number of studies. Non-English publications and gray literature were excluded.

Do not interpret the reported lack of confidence and knowledge as evidence that physical therapists are inherently unsuited for dementia care. The review highlights a training gap and systemic barriers, not a permanent deficit in capability. Additionally, the belief that dementia patients have 'limited rehabilitation potential' is a reported attitude, not a clinical fact; the introduction notes that exercise can improve function and ADLs.