Benefits of Physical Therapy for Seniors

Decreased mobility and function can be a contributing factor to seniors becoming less independent and increasing their risk of falls or other injury. Physical therapy can be a beneficial way to help aging adults improve their balance, coordination, strength, range of motion, and more. All of these elements can help to keep them more active and agile. Knowing that your senior is able to safely get around on their own can provide more peace of mind. Physical therapy can also improve quality of life for the elderly.

Improved Mobility

Conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis can make it more challenging to get around. Joints can become stiff and painful. This can make seniors more hesitant to rely on them and stay active. Through physical therapy they can safely continue to flex these muscles and keep joints moving to increase range of motion. Daily activities can become more comfortable and your loved one can retain more of their independence.

Fall Prevention

Physical therapy can help to enhance balance and coordination. In turn, this can help to prevent falls and increase safety. Your loved one can learn to navigate more effectively and overcome physical challenges they may have. They will safely build their strength and keep muscles flexible and toned.

Pain Management

Cold and heat therapy along with manual therapy can target specific areas of need. This can help to reduce inflammation and relax muscles to improve flexibility. The less that muscles or joints are moved, the more stiff and painful they can become. By gently working these areas and using physical therapy as a complementary therapy to other treatment methods, pain management efforts can be enhanced.

Enhanced Recovery

If your senior should sustain an injury or illness or have surgery, physical therapy may be recommended to help improve their recovery. It can support them in regaining motion, flexibility, and strength. If they had joint replacement, it can help them adapt to using their joint again safely and maximizing potential.

Maintaining Independence

By focusing on their physical abilities and improving mobility, balance, coordination, strength, and more, seniors can retain more independence. They can boost their health and wellbeing and continue to do more activities on their own. A physical therapist can show them how to adapt to move more safely and carry out tasks with greater ease.

If you notice that your loved one is not getting around as well as they used to, talk to their doctor about the possibility of physical therapy. The doctor may also be able to recommend exercise groups that are tailored to the needs of seniors. Being proactive and helping your senior to stay active can not only benefit their health but their safety as well.