The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Seniors

It is normal for our motor abilities to decline as we grow older, but we can prevent weakness and remain strong with the right preventative exercises and therapies. Even when seniors are already showing signs of decreased mobility or dementia, physical therapy may be helpful in regaining their strength, retain their independence and helps in dementia care. The objective of physical therapy for seniors is to aid in improving and restoring functionality, enhance mobility, and reduce pain to boost their balance and strength.

Seniors are more susceptible to falls, which one of the main reasons why physical therapy is good for them. They lose strength, flexibility, and their sense of balance, and leading to increased risk of serious injury. Physical therapy should improve those functions, while providing a way to control and manage the health of bones to reduce a senior’s risk of getting fractures and broken bones, in case they fall.

Physical therapy for seniors is particularly recommended after hospitalization or when they have recovered from an illness or injury. Without it, they will be prone to falling, which could lead to injury and another hospital stay. Lack of active movement due to weakness can make seniors susceptible to pneumonia and other conditions such as skin ulcers and bed sores. Moreover, it may reduce their endurance and strength in the long-run, cause decreased oxygen saturation and increased heart rate and blood pressure that can lead to heart attacks, blood clots, and stroke. Joints can become stiff, leading to more pain.

Different types of activities and movements can be part of physical therapy for seniors. When you work with the right therapists, you can be sure that your loved one’s unique condition and needs will be considered to develop a program that is meant for their treatment. Education is an important part of physical therapy, too, as it shows easy ways to accomplish daily activities while boosting mental and physical well-being, and the quality of life.