Good Morning Readers,

We therapist’s get this question so often….How can Physical Therapy help aging adults?  Here are some answers.

 

Physical therapy can greatly improve mobility and motion, two things that older adults, as well as people with chronic conditions, often struggle with. Physical therapy can also help you recover from, or cope with, a life changing and potentially debilitating condition such as a stroke or diabetes. A physical therapist is a trusted health care professional who can help you address health challenges, maintain or achieve your desired level of fitness, and recover from or avoid injury. In many cases, a physical therapist can even help you do all of these things without the use of any medication.

1 in 4 Americans currently age 65 will live to at least 90 and a physical therapist can help you stay or get Fit After 50, so you can enjoy your life fully.   Maintaining our desired level of fitness gets even more challenging as we age because many people lose flexibility, strength, or balance. Physical therapists have in depth knowledge of all four of the body’s major systems; they understand how the body works and how to get it moving again. One of the most important things a physical therapist can do for older adults is help them improve their balance and prevent falls.

Why a Physical Therapist?     

According to the National Aging Council, falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among seniors. While steps can be taken to “fall proof” a home, working with a physical therapist can help prevent falls in the first place.  A physical therapist will recommend activities that emphasize strength, flexibility, and proper gait. These exercises will help improve the vestibular (balance) system. Exercises may include a walking regimen, Tai Chi, or aquatics classes, as well as strength training exercises that your loved one can do right in the comfort of their own home. A physical therapist can also refer your loved one to another medical professional such as an ophthalmologist if the need arises. (Source cited: here)

If you think you or a loved one might benefit from physical therapy, search the national database of physical therapist members of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and find a physical therapist that is right for you.

In the Phoenix, Arizona Integrative Therapy and Wellness, LLC can come to your home or the place you call home and provide a full therapy evaluation and help you reach your therapy goals.

Contact me at Kim@integrativetherapywellness.com

Thank you for reading and please comment on the blog site or the Facebook site.

Kim Jacob, PT, CNDT, BCST


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