Not only do seniors typically need more regular medical care than younger adults, they often have a harder time when it comes to recovering from an acute illness or injury. It’s not uncommon for seniors to experience a decrease in function and ability even if medical procedures go smoothly. A physician may recommend a stay in a short-term rehabilitation center after being discharged from the hospital, which can be distressing for seniors who want to return home. However, short-term rehabilitation for seniors is an important part of maintaining independence and quality of life.
At Buckner Retirement Services, we are proud to provide short-term rehab therapy to both residents and seniors outside our senior living communities. The medically supervised treatments and therapies offered in short-term rehab can help seniors make a full recovery faster than at home. If your parent or loved one needs this level of care, call 214.227.7182, and we can answer any questions you may have about our programs.
What Is Short-Term Rehabilitation for Seniors?
Short-term rehab therapy for seniors is a type of physical therapy that focuses on helping individuals regain the skills they need to function independently after a recent injury or illness. This type of therapy typically lasts two to four weeks and is often used as an alternative to long-term rehabilitation.
The goal of short-term rehab is to help patients regain their independence by helping them develop the strength, skills, and mobility to function in day-to-day life. Short-term rehab centers for seniors will usually have different types of therapies for different situations and needs. Schedules for this type of treatment will vary and may even be completed in a day care or outpatient program. Senior adults who want to stay close to home may opt for these set-ups if they are able to receive daily support from friends or family members.
It’s good to keep in mind that seniors with strong support networks and experienced caregivers may still benefit from this type of treatment. Even skilled caregivers may not be able or qualified to administer the wide range of therapies that are offered in a short-term rehab center.
Short-term rehab may be a good option for seniors if they have experienced many common medical conditions, including:
- Heart attacks and strokes
- Joint replacement
- Respiratory illness
- Surgery or serious illness
- Falls
- Back and hip injuries
Benefits of Short-Term Rehab Therapy for Seniors
Addresses a Wide Range of Needs
Regardless of whether a senior adult has recently undergone surgery or suffered an injury, returning to full function may require a multidisciplinary approach. A good short-term rehab center will offer a wide range of services and therapies that can address most areas of concern. Some types of treatments include:
- Speech therapy
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Cardiac rehabilitation
Ease of Access
Senior adults may be eager to return home to where they are more comfortable. This is of paramount importance for many seniors, and the outpatient options of short-term rehab centers will help fulfill this need. The reduced time commitment of a more flexible program type is also easier on family members since they will have more opportunities to spend time with their loved one.
Quick Intervention
Despite short-term rehab therapy for seniors being a way to assist with recovery, there is always the risk of a senior adult’s health taking a turn for the worse. While undergoing treatment at a short-term rehab facility, medical staff is always available and can provide emergency care far quicker than any at-home caretaker.
While short-term rehab can be incredibly effective for many seniors, in some cases, traditional rehabilitation services may still be necessary to make meaningful progress toward regaining full function.
Join Buckner for Short-Term Rehabilitation for Seniors
The Buckner Retirement Services short-term rehab center can offer the complete continuum of care needed for you or a loved one to return to full health and function. If you need short-term senior rehab therapy, contact us today at 214.227.7182 for more information about our programs.