Benefits of Physical Therapy for Seniors

It’s safe to say that everyone wants to age with grace. One of the key components to aging optimally is having sufficient mobility to perform activities of daily living with ease. Another component of optimal aging is having the capacity to live safely and independently in your community of choice. As we age, our bodies undergo many changes, some of which are inevitable, and chronic health conditions start to take a greater toll.

Physical therapy is a highly effective treatment option for seniors to address age-related issues such as reduced mobility, diminished activity tolerance, increased risk of falls, and chronic pain. 

Physical therapists (PTs) are highly skilled experts in human movement. A PT can diagnose and treat movement impairments through tailored exercise plans, hands-on care, and customized education. They often work with older adults to optimize movement and improve quality of life. Almost all elderly adults would benefit from a consultation with a PT, and at Sheltering Arms Institute, we have experts to address every patient’s needs. To start your journey toward improving your mobility, below are four key categories to assess your level of physical function: strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance.

1. Strength

Can you stand up from a standard chair without using your hands for support?

2. Balance

Can you stand on one leg for 10 seconds or more?

3. Flexibility

Can you touch your toes from a standing position?

4. Endurance

Can you walk 1 mile in 20 minutes or less?

Your self-assessment to the above questions provides a window into areas where you may need improvement. Luckily, PTs can help you improve in these areas of physical function.

Through their expertise, knowledge, and guidance, PTs empower individuals to achieve their goals and live life to the fullest, whether it’s taking a dream vacation, playing with the grandkids, or participating in a favorite hobby. PTs play a vital role in helping older adults move, feel, and live better.

Take action now to improve your mobility and quality of life. To schedule an appointment with a physical therapist at Sheltering Arms Institute, please visit www.shelteringarmsinstitute.com/contact-us or call (804) 764-1000.

Reference:

What is a Physical Therapist – APTA Geriatrics. (n.d.). https://aptageriatrics.org/about-academy-geriatrics-pt/leadership/partnership/duplicated-national-council-on-aging-ncoa-3070/

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Top 3 Exercises for Parkinson’s Disease

Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and are looking to start a new exercise program? Research has indicated that exercise can help reduce the progression of Parkinson’s Disease and can provide relief from motor symptoms, stiffness, or mood changes that can be associated with the diagnosis. It’s recommended to see a physical therapist who is experienced in treating people with Parkinson’s Disease to identify specific areas of improvement and to assist you in establishing a safe, customized exercise program. Learn exercises to address different elements of physical exercise and wellness.

Avocado toast with turkey bacon and tomato

5 No-Egg Healthy Breakfast Ideas​

As many of you may know, there’s been an ongoing egg shortage due to the bird flu, which has significantly impacted egg prices — up by more than 50% from last year. While this may have made your usual breakfast routine a bit more challenging, fear not! There are plenty of other protein-rich options to fuel your day.

Q&A: What to Expect When Facing an Upper or Lower Limb Amputation

In the United States alone, approximately 185,000 amputations occur each year, and 2 million people are living with limb loss. In recognition of Limb Loss Awareness Month, this article addresses common questions surrounding limb loss, from the reasons for amputation to returning to favorite activities following surgery. An amputation is the surgical removal of part of the body, usually an arm or leg. There are three main reasons for amputation.

The Interdisciplinary Approach in Rehabilitation to Multiple Sclerosis Care

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affects nearly 1 million people in the United States alone. MS is an immune-mediated disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the myelin insulation that surrounds the nerves in the central nervous system. This damage causes widespread symptoms varying in severity, including fatigue, weakness, sensation loss, visual impairments, and walking and balance impairments. These symptoms of MS can impact someone’s mobility, quality of life, ability to work and provide for their family, relationships, and community participation. Because these symptoms can impact so many aspects of a person’s life, a rehabilitative care team should consist of multiple disciplines that work together to provide a collaborative, all-encompassing care plan, called interdisciplinary care.

9 Ways to Improve Sleep After a Concussion

After a concussion, there are a lot of common misconceptions about sleep. Mainly, is it safe to sleep following this mild traumatic brain injury? The answer is yes – it is okay to sleep after a concussion! This misconception stems from an out-of-date recommendation to wake the person up every hour to check on them. However, that is only if there is concern about the risk for a brain hemorrhage or bleed that wasn’t immediately apparent.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.