Pain is a common issue for Elders. Physical therapy helps manage pain without prescription medications.
Falling is the leading cause of accidents in seniors, resulting in broken bones and head injuries. A physical therapist can help improve balance, strength, and range of motion to minimize future falls.
Physical therapy also helps control the tremors of Parkinson’s Disease and decrease bone loss from Osteoporosis.
Reduced Pain
Physical therapy uses holistic methods, including exercise and massage, to treat arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic headaches. It reduces pain and improves flexibility and mobility without surgery or medication. It can also reduce the risk of falls in elderly individuals, as falling is one of the leading causes of death for seniors.
A physical therapist for elderly will employ intentional techniques, such as aquatic exercises and hot or cold therapy, electrical stimulation, or ice to reduce swelling to help patients manage pain. Unlike medications, which can have various side effects, these treatments are safe and effective for aging adults.
A common belief is that physical therapists only work with people after they have been injured, but PT can be used as preventative care to reduce injuries in the first place. In addition, many PT techniques can be done at home, increasing seniors’ independence and overall quality of life. This is important because living with constant pain or limitations on movement limits what seniors can do and how much energy they have to tackle daily tasks.
Increased Mobility
As a person ages, it can become easier to develop muscle loss and bone density, which will cause stiffness and reduced mobility. Physical therapy can help regain lost strength and flexibility, making daily activities much easier for seniors.
As an alternative to medication, which can have many negative side effects, physical therapy can provide pain relief for elderly individuals who are struggling with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic headaches, and nerve damage. Physical therapy aims to help patients reduce pain and improve their overall quality of life.
If you have elderly loved ones struggling with mobility issues, encouraging them to attend a physical therapy appointment is important. It is helpful if you go with them on their first few appointments to ensure they have all the information they need and encourage them to stick to the program. For added support, consider offering to drive or assist them with transportation to ensure they can attend their PT sessions consistently.
Increased Independence
As people get older, they can experience a loss of balance, coordination and movement abilities. This can make the smallest movements and tasks challenging regardless of age, illness or injury.
Working with a physical therapist can help avoid this by increasing strength, flexibility, and posture, lowering the chance of falling. Falls are one of the leading causes of major injuries and hospitalizations among the elderly.
Geriatric physical therapy targets the special requirements of the aged, such as increasing balance, strengthening muscles, and lowering joint or muscular discomfort. It also aids in managing symptoms associated with various medical problems, including vertigo and the adverse effects of cancer therapy. As a result, it can help people enhance their quality of life and keep their independence for as long as feasible.
Better Sleep
A good night’s sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy mind and body. Unfortunately, many people struggle with sleeping well. This can be due to several reasons, including stress, illness, pain, overstimulation before bedtime, and physical problems such as poor posture.
A few things can be done to help improve sleep. One way is to keep a consistent sleep schedule. This can be difficult for some people, but it is important to go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning.
Another way to improve sleep is to avoid stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine. Practicing relaxing activities such as bathing or showering before bed is also good. Lastly, exercising during the day can help people fall asleep more easily at night. However, it is important to avoid exercising too close to bedtime as it can cause people to feel energized and excited rather than relaxed and calm.
