The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Seniors

Mobility issues affect roughly 35% of seniors over the age of 70 and a majority of people over the age of 85. If you're among the millions of older adults with mobility issues, physical therapy could be helpful for you. In this piece, we'll explain why by reviewing the biggest benefits of physical therapy for seniors.

What Is Physical Therapy?

Sometimes called physiotherapy or PT, physical therapy is a set of interventions that help promote strength and enhance mobility. A physical therapist designs a customized program based on the individual needs of each person. Programs may include:

• Exercises led by a physical therapist
• Passive movement, when a therapist manipulates and moves parts of a person's body while they relax
• Massage
• Hot and cold therapy
• Electrical stimulation
• Ultrasound therapy
• Exercises done at home

In many cases, physical therapists also teach seniors simple exercises that they can do between sessions to continue to build strength, coordination, balance and flexibility.

Key Benefits of Physical Therapy

Mobility impacts so much of our daily lives, and by improving it, physical therapy can benefit seniors in a variety of ways. The following are some of the key benefits of physical therapy services.

Greater Independence

Over time, physical therapy helps build muscle strength and coordination to increase overall mobility. As a result, physical therapy makes it possible for seniors to perform more tasks like whipping up healthy meals in the kitchen and taking a bath more independently. 

Reduced Risk of Falls and Injuries

Fall prevention is crucial for seniors, as 1 out of every 5 older adults who suffer a fall accident ends up with a serious injury. Physical therapy helps improve balance, coordination and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls.

Relief From Pain

Physical therapy exercises promote stronger muscles, bones and joints. As a result, therapy may help reduce aches and pains due to osteoarthritis, spinal conditions, injuries and medical conditions.

Increased Confidence

Feeling unsteady on your feet can make you feel less sure of yourself. Regaining mobility through physical therapy can help restore your confidence and give you a sense of empowerment to benefit your emotional well-being.

Management of Chronic Health Conditions

Many health conditions can affect the muscles, bones and joints. Often, health care providers recommend physical therapy as a part of treatment plans for chronic conditions like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and even urinary incontinence. Receiving physical therapy services could help you better manage symptoms of ongoing health issues.

Better Quality of Life

Due to its many benefits, physical therapy can help seniors enjoy an overall better quality of life. Improved mobility can make it possible to participate in activities, attend events, complete daily living tasks and enjoy community outings more safely and comfortably. 

Reap the Benefits of Physical Therapy

At Aberdeen Village, physical therapy is one of the many Assisted Living services available to our residents. For more than 70 years, we have delivered person-centered care tailored to the individual needs of the people who call our community home. Contact us today to find out more about how you can gain access to physical therapy and an array of other services.