As the elderly population grows, so does the need for quality health care and support services. Occupational therapy is one such service that can provide a wide range of benefits to adult seniors. Occupational therapists provide specialized care to help seniors stay active in daily life and remain independent as long as possible. There are many possible benefits of occupational therapy for seniors, including overcoming injuries and chronic conditions.
If your loved one needs short-term rehabilitation therapy, Buckner Retirement Services has you covered. Regardless of the need, we are proud to provide therapy to both our residents and those outside of our senior living communities. Our phone line is always open should you have any questions about our services and how we administer treatments like occupational therapy. Call us at 214.227.7182 today, and we can help your loved one get back on their feet.
What Is Occupational Therapy?
It’s relatively easy to understand the concept of physical therapy but a little harder to grasp what occupational therapy entails. Occupational therapy is a type of health care that helps people with physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges to develop, improve, or maintain their ability to participate in everyday activities. It focuses on helping individuals achieve independence and function in all areas of their lives.
An occupational therapist works with individuals of all ages and abilities to identify areas where they need help. The therapist will develop strategies to help them reach their goals, as well as provide resources for support. This could include activities such as:
- Self-care
- Productivity
- Leisure
- Education
- Socialization
The overall goal of occupational therapy is to enable people to partake in meaningful everyday activities that might have been out of reach. The type of occupational therapy someone receives depends on their needs and goals. For example, an adult senior would receive vastly different treatment than a child or teenager.
5 Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Seniors
Occupational therapy helps seniors maintain their health and wellness by focusing on activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Some of the benefits of occupational therapy for adult seniors can include:
1. Improved Mobility
Customized exercises focusing on strength training and balance can help seniors improve their mobility and function in daily life. These exercises can help seniors stay flexible and reduce the risk of falls, which is a major concern for senior adults. This increased strength and mobility can also help minimize the need for assistive devices such as walkers or wheelchairs.
2. Improved Cognitive Ability
Occupational therapy can also help seniors improve cognitive function and memory through activities that stimulate the brain, such as puzzles and problem-solving tasks. This helps keep the mind sharp and can even help slow down the cognitive decline associated with aging.
3. Pain Management
Occupational therapists can create individualized plans to address chronic pain issues associated with age-related conditions such as arthritis or other joint problems. They may use stretching techniques, heat or cold therapy, massage, or other methods to reduce an adult senior’s pain symptoms and improve overall function and quality of life.
4. Improved Mental Health
Occupational therapists also offer counseling services designed to address mental health issues common among older adults, including depression and anxiety. These therapies may involve:
- Relaxation techniques
- Mindfulness training
- Goal setting
- Social interaction
These activities can help seniors cope with the stressors they face every day while promoting positive mental health habits.
5. Increased Independence
Occupational therapy helps seniors manage both short-term injuries and chronic illnesses such as arthritis or diabetes. This can enable seniors to be more independent in performing everyday tasks such as dressing themselves or preparing meals without assistance. These abilities are often not thought of as critical, but they can be incredibly important for many senior citizens who want to maintain their independence throughout their golden years.
Turn to Buckner Retirement Services for Occupational Therapy
At Buckner Retirement Services, we offer therapies that are handled by trained professionals who are committed to helping seniors live full, rich lives. We can provide the care your loved one needs, regardless of the level of care they need. We understand the importance of both long-term and short-term occupational therapy for seniors and are passionate about giving seniors the independence to truly enjoy their retirement. If your loved one could enjoy the benefits of occupational therapy for seniors, call 214.227.7182 or contact us online today.