Older people can benefit from physio treatments in many ways. While some people need to see a physiotherapist after an injury or to aid recovery after a debilitating illness, others have general treatments with a geriatric physio. What are the benefits of having physiotherapy as you get older?
1. Maintain and Improve Mobility
As people age, they often start to have mobility problems. Some people find it hard to get around or maintain an active lifestyle because of conditions such as arthritis. Others simply lose some mobility as they get older.
If you aren't as mobile as you were, then your quality of life suffers. You might not be able to do things you used to do. You might find it harder to live independently at home if you can't walk so well or are worried about having falls because your balance isn't as good as it once was.
Geriatric physiotherapy treatments help you maintain and improve your mobility. Physios can teach you exercises and techniques to ease general aches and pains, improve your stamina and rebuild strength in weakened areas. Your quality of life will improve.
2. Manage Illnesses and Conditions
If you have illnesses or conditions that affect the way you can get around or live a normal life, then your doctor might recommend physiotherapy as part of your overall treatment plan. Regular exercise and targeted activities can improve some medical conditions or make them more manageable.
For example, physios can help people with breathing conditions such as COPD. If your lung health is compromised, then regular gentle exercises can improve lung function and strength. Physios can also help people manage other conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, Parkinson's Disease and MS.
3. Boost Confidence and Wellbeing
If you have a long-term medical condition, general age-related aches and pains, or mobility problems, then you might feel depressed. If you aren't comfortable leaving your home because you have fallen, then you might feel lonely and anxious. Your confidence might be low.
If you have regular physiotherapy sessions, then you build the strength and skills you need to mitigate against some or all of your medical problems. You could reduce your pain, restore some of your mobility and boost your confidence. You'll feel happier in yourself as you start to make progress.
Plus, regular gentle exercise also gives you a natural boost of positive hormones. You'll feel less low and more engaged in life.
To learn more about these and other benefits, contact local physiotherapy clinics with experience in geriatric treatments.
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