Why Physiotherapy Is Important for Seniors

April 26, 2019
Why Physiotherapy Is Important for Seniors
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As we age, our bodies undergo natural transformations. We may experience lower bone density, decreased muscle strength, increased body fat, and stiffening joints. Seniors’ bodies are more susceptible to chronic diseases. Influences of ageing can impact our mobility and inherently affect our independence. Physiotherapy is one simple solution toward maintaining a good level of mobility that allows us to regain our independence.

What is Physiotherapy? 

Physiotherapy is part of a multi-disciplinary approach to optimize healthcare for seniors by focusing primarily on movement and function. By analyzing the effects of age, disease, injury, and lifestyle on seniors’ mobility, physiotherapists can implement preventative and therapeutic interventions to enhance seniors’ quality of life. Physiotherapy is conducted in a variety of settings, including public facilities and clinics, hospitals, and private homes.

Seniors who participate in physiotherapy will be provided with individualized exercise programs and ongoing education regarding healthy lifestyle choices. Physiotherapists evaluate seniors’ physical needs and environmental conditions to prescribe appropriate adaptations to ensure safety and independence.

Benefits of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can improve seniors’ quality of life, whether they’re struggling from naturally aging, symptoms of chronic disease, or an unanticipated medical event, such as stroke or injury. Preventative physiotherapy can prepare seniors for ongoing mobility changes or upcoming surgery. It’s a practice that keeps seniors independent while facilitating healthy emotional and physical health.

Chronic Disease Maintenance

There are many chronic diseases that are debilitating to seniors’ health, such as:

  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Hypertension
  • Obesity
  • Arthritis

Physiotherapy can assist with the treatment of chronic diseases by educating seniors about self-management techniques to decrease pain, shortness of breath, as well as anxiety and depression resulting from symptoms.

Cardiovascular Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy is part of a multi-disciplinary approach to cardiovascular rehabilitation. By continuing to practice physiotherapy in a cardiovascular rehabilitation program, seniors will reduce their chances of experiencing a severe episode, and the general mortality rate will plummet by 15-25%. Participating in physiotherapy—whether in the privacy of your home or in a medical facility—can ease the transition to safely return to the community after a cardiac event.

Falls Prevention & Rehabilitation

Seniors experiencing changes in physical strength and balance have often experienced a fall or fear the potential of falling. Preventative physiotherapy can asses the environment’s safety and teach seniors safe manoeuvring while strengthening their muscles and improving balance. On a psychological level, physiotherapy gives older adults the confidence to engage in everyday physical activities.

Stroke Rehabilitation

It is estimated that about 50,000 Canadians experience a stroke annually. Early intervention of physiotherapy decreases the need for higher levels of care. After a stroke, physiotherapy restores seniors’ independence by improving balance and coordination through low-risk activities.

Adaptive Equipment

Physiotherapists often prescribe adaptive equipment and provide training for the use of adaptive equipment. Healthcare Solutions provides seniors with all the recommended equipment to meet mobility needs to ensure you remain safe, independent, and comfortable. Physiotherapy may recommend mobility aids, cushions, incontinence products, or exercise equipment. Contact us today to improve your mobility!

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