As people age, they can experience various health issues that impact their independence. This can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. That’s why it’s important that seniors take care of themselves by maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and, at times, physical therapy. In many cases, physical therapy can help seniors stay active and safe.
Physical therapy for seniors can include long-term therapy or short-term rehabilitation therapy, both of which are provided by our communities. At Buckner Retirement Services, we prioritize the things that enhance our seniors’ quality of life. We’re here to answer all of your questions about the benefits of senior physical therapy and more. Call us today at 214.227.7182.
How Can Physical Therapy Help Seniors?
Physical therapy for senior citizens aims to help people relieve pain and teach seniors different ways of moving their bodies in order to perform daily activities more successfully. Physical therapists begin by evaluating each client and then develop care plans to guide future sessions. Physical therapy can help with the following health concerns:
- Pain
- Limited mobility
- Injury recovery
- Injury prevention
- Rehabilitation following an accident
- Management of chronic illnesses
- Adaptation after surgery
- Learning to use devices like walkers
In many states, senior physical therapy can be scheduled with or without a doctor’s referral. However, many insurance plans only cover the cost of physical therapy if a doctor prescribes it.
The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Seniors
Physical therapy for seniors focuses on improving mobility and balance, which are often affected as people age. Through customized exercises, seniors can enhance their strength and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls and encouraging a more active lifestyle. The benefits of physical therapy are plentiful:
- Fall prevention – Building muscle and improving balance to prevent falls are the primary reasons seniors seek physical therapy. Falls can be very dangerous for seniors, and maintaining flexibility and building strength can reduce the chances of a fall or increase a person’s ability to recover from one.
- Osteoporosis – Osteoporosis is a bone disease that impacts many seniors. It is a medical condition that causes bones to become less dense and more fragile, which puts sufferers at a greater risk for fractures. Exercise can slow down the progression of osteoporosis by building muscle around bones to help support them. This minimizes the risk of fractures if an accident occurs.
- Arthritis – There is no cure for arthritis, but physical therapy for seniors can help alleviate the symptoms. Seniors learn exercise and activity modifications to relieve pressure on the joints and live with reduced pain.
Some seniors may only need a few sessions of physical therapy, while others may benefit from long-term care.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Physical Therapy for Seniors
Both long-term and short-term physical therapy can be helpful to seniors. Seniors who need help with a specific skill or who need to learn pain relief techniques may be able to stop sessions after just a few months. Even short-term physical therapy for seniors can have long-lasting positive effects.
On the other hand, some seniors may benefit from long-term therapy that involves regular sessions for years. Seniors should work with their doctor and their therapist to determine what form of therapy is right for them. Therapists may also need to try various techniques until they find something effective.
Getting the Most Out of Senior Physical Therapy
Similar to supporting bones with strong muscles so that they can function properly without breaking, people need to support their physical therapy efforts with things like healthy foods and consistency. Here’s how to get the most out of senior physical therapy sessions:
- Consistency – Follow the recommendations made by your physical therapist to maintain progress. If your routine should be done daily, do your best to adhere to that schedule.
- Maintain a nutrient-rich diet – A balanced diet rich in nutrients is needed to help support muscle repair and overall health, which can be the difference between effective and ineffective physical therapy.
- Proper hydration – Regular fluid intake is essential to keeping muscles and joints well-hydrated, aiding in better movement and recovery.
- Set realistic goals – Work with your therapist to set achievable milestones for a sense of purpose and direction.
- Celebrate progress – Acknowledge and celebrate how far you’ve come, even if the victories seem small. Paying attention to wins of any size will help keep you motivated.
- Monitor health changes – Keep track of changes in your overall health or mobility, being sure to communicate with your therapist for adjustments in the physical therapy plan if needed.
Supporting your efforts with these essential pieces of the overall wellness puzzle will ensure that you don’t forfeit the benefits of physical therapy for seniors.
A Closer Look at Nutritional Supports for Senior Physical Therapy
Eating nutrient-rich food is just as important as physical exercise. A healthy diet that provides essential nutrients supports the body’s energy and ability to engage in activities like physical therapy. Physical therapists often work closely with nutritionists or provide nutritional counseling themselves to ensure their clients are receiving proper nourishment.
Seniors can benefit from a diet rich in:
- Leafy greens – Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are rich in calcium to support bone health.
- Lean protein – Chicken, fish, beans, and nuts are excellent sources of lean protein that promotes muscle growth.
- Whole grains – Oats, quinoa, brown rice, and whole-grain bread provide fiber for digestive health.
While seniors complete physical therapy, therapists can educate them about the importance of a balanced diet and help them develop personalized meal plans. Buckner communities offer holistic support for our residents. From healthy meal and dining services to fitness classes and physical therapy, we strive to help seniors live their very best lives.
Call Buckner Today for Senior Care in Texas
At Buckner, we know that health issues and loss of independence can significantly impact senior quality of life. That’s why we do everything we can to make residents feel as vibrant as they always have, providing opportunities for them to stay fit or improve their health. Whether seniors prefer visits from an on-site therapist or they want to arrange transportation to a physical therapy center, our staff is ready to help.
We offer a variety of programs and services that provide our residents the physical, emotional, and social support they need to age with joy. To get started at a Buckner community today, call us at 214.227.7182 or submit our online form.