Health & Fitness
Understanding the Benefits of Physical Therapy for Senior’s
October is National Physical Therapy Month
Many believe that physical therapy is meant as a treatment after a serious injury or surgery, but it actually has more usefulness than meets the eye; physical therapy is especially helpful for our elders. Age-related bodily changes come over time and slowly can lead to limitations of your Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Typically the aging process doesn’t result in a lot of pain, but rather decreased physical mobility, so using a physical therapist as a resource for information and physical maintenance/rehabilitation can be very beneficial for them to be able to lead a safer, healthier life. However, when your loved one hits a plateau during physical therapy, it may be time to contact your local senior advisor for further guidance.
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What is Geriatric Physical Therapy and How Can it Help My Aging Loved One?
This is a proven practice to help numerous health conditions concerning people as they go through the process of naturally aging. Forms of physical therapy include unique exercises and education. The education can help our aging loved ones understand the anatomical and physiological changes that are developing.
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Physical Therapy can Promote Independence
After screening the person’s current physical condition, the therapist will design an individualized physical program to restore mobility, reduce pain, increased fitness levels, and improve balance & coordination. According to the National Institutes of Health, physical therapy is also good for helping to build strength, and improve overall fitness. Therefore, physical therapy can help reduce the risk of a loved one falling, which is the leading cause of injury over the age of 65.
Not only can this form of treatment benefit your loved ones physically, but it also builds their confidence and promote everyday activity. Physical Therapists can help your aged loved one maintain their independence by suggesting assistive devices for themselves and at their homes, and recommend accessibility & safety adjustments that can be made to their home. However, as a family, if you decide that living at home independently is no longer an option, or if your loved one has hit certain limitations, it may be time to look into different senior living options. Contact Assisted Transition for local guidance here in the Chicago Western Suburbs.
