Benefits of Physical Therapy for Seniors

By: Leslie Mento, PT, DPT, GCS

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/

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