Physical Therapy for the Elderly
While physical therapy can address many of your body’s mechanical needs, it can also help strengthen your mind. Exercise releases chemicals like endorphins and serotonin that improve your mood. It can also put you in touch with other people, getting you out in the world, reducing any feelings of loneliness and isolation.

In addition, physical therapy helps treat conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, joint replacement and even cancer. There are a variety of specialized programs designed to help restore mobility, increase fitness levels and reduce overall pain.

There are four main types of physical therapy that can help in recovery of the aged person.

Geriatric physical therapy

The purpose of geriatric physical therapy is to help aged adults build strength in the body, increase confidence levels and maintain their independence for as long as possible. Falls and dependence are the main complications in the aged population. Remaining physically active, and optimizing physical and psychological well-being are the great benefits of geriatric physical therapy.

Orthopedic physical therapy

Orthopedic physical therapy helps treat injuries of the musculoskeletal system. The purpose is to help restore function to the muscles, bones, joints, tendons and ligaments.

Cardiopulmonary physical therapy

After suffering from a heart attack, or other cardiovascular or pulmonary conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis, cardiopulmonary physical therapy can help increase endurance and functional independence.

Neurological physical therapy

Neurological physical therapy focuses on the brain and the body. Neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease benefit from this type of therapy. Essentially, neurological physical therapy helps in teaching to adapt to visual, mobility, balance and muscle loss impairments to more easily complete activities of daily living.

Although aging can be difficult, physical therapy is a great key in helping the elderly maintain or achieve an optimal level of physical health while they experience the natural aging process.

Reference- https://www.asccare.com/4-types-physical-therapy-seniors/

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Lorraine Arkaifie, MSN, AGPCNP-BC

Founder & Director of Services at Adult Alternative Home Care

After completing nursing school in 2009, she worked as a Registered Nurse with the elderly in nursing homes, hospitals and in their homes. She went on to complete advance nurse training with a focus in Geriatrics. As she gained more clinical experience, she was encouraged to pursue her dreams of establishing a home care organization that will provide excellent services to members of her community. With over ten years clinical knowledge, she has perfected the skills to establish rapport and support of the frail and elderly we serve. She loves what she does and will love to help you or your loved ones get the care and support they need.

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