Benefits of Physical Therapy for the Elderly

Physical therapy is a popular treatment method for people who are recovering from injuries or surgery. But the elderly can also benefit from regular physical therapy. Here are the main benefits of physical therapy for senior citizens.

1. Treat Serious Diseases

The probability of falling sick increases as you become older. Fortunately, health experts have discovered that physical therapy can reduce symptoms or even treat some chronic ailments.

Arthritis is one of the diseases that may go away after intensive physical therapy. This disease is common among individuals over 65 years of age. People with arthritis will experience back pain and spine discomfort. Physical therapy can reduce back pain and treat the discomfort associated with arthritis.

Physical therapy can also be helpful to individuals recovering from a stroke. The therapy will rejuvenate muscles via induced body motions. 

People who have Alzheimer's disease should also try physical therapy. Regular therapy can improve memory and help the patient avoid more chronic memory problems.

Physical therapy can also lower the symptoms of osteoporosis. This disease refers to a condition in which the bones become weaker and thinner. Osteoporosis patients have problems maintaining posture and can fall easily. Physical therapy helps keep the bones strong so that you don’t face the risks associated with osteoporosis.

2. Reduce the Risk of Falls

Body balance, strength, and flexibility reduce as you age. Hence, your ability to maintain steady walking declines, and you may start to fall regularly. To prevent this situation, work on your body fitness. One of the best ways to enhance physical fitness is to take part in regular physical therapy.

3. Boost Endurance and Strength

The body continues to benefit from physical therapy long after the therapy sessions have ended. In particular, your endurance level will increase and your body will become stronger. Similarly, physical therapy helps to regulate your heart rate and blood pressure. The result is a lower risk of suffering from heart attacks or getting a blood clot.

4. Access to Helpful Education and Motivation

Physical therapists may also offer education classes to their patients. You will learn about the types of activities that improve physical fitness in old age. In some instances, you may also learn about the best ways to enhance your mental health in old age. Other benefits include learning about lifestyle changes that can improve your general health as you grow older. 

5. Regain Independence

One of the things that may come with age progression is reliance on other people for mobility. For example, you may ask your spouse, child, or caregiver to help you walk down the stairs. Relying on other people can reduce your confidence and make you feel burdensome to other people.

Engaging in physical therapy can help you regain your mobility. You will become more confident and start to complete your daily activities without help. Increased confidence can have a major impact on your mental health and overall well-being.

6. Reduce Reliance on Prescribed Drugs

Prescribed drugs can help you overcome many diseases, but these drugs may also have side effects. Also, some people are not comfortable with taking prescribed drugs every day. Physical therapy can be a wonderful alternative. 

For example, therapy can help reduce lower back pain, just like prescribed drugs will have done. Physical therapy can also alleviate headaches, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. However, it would help if you talked to your doctor before you give up the prescribed drugs. 

Age progression shouldn't result in chronic diseases and an inactive lifestyle. Instead, you can sign up for physical therapy to increase body strength and alleviate some diseases. Physical therapy treatment can provide the maximum impact if you choose Advanced Physical Therapy. We provide holistic physical therapy services to various types of patients and individuals. Contact us today for more information.