Seniors are at much greater risk of falling as they age, especially if they have become more sedentary over the years. They might believe that it is perfectly normal to have more trouble with mobility over time, but that does not have to be the case. Physical therapy is a tool that can dramatically improve mobility and decrease fall risk factors. And seniors can access physical therapy in an adult day center, which makes getting the help that they need easier than ever before.
The Importance of Fall Prevention
Fall prevention is a critical component of senior care as a whole. That’s because falls can lead to significant physical, emotional, and even financial consequences. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among seniors, and the risk of falling increases with age. With appropriate interventions, including physical therapy, falls can be prevented, and seniors can maintain their mobility and independence.
Balance Training
One of the ways to start working on fall prevention is through balance training. This involves exercises and activities that improve balance, stability, and overall coordination. Physical therapy offers an opportunity for seniors to learn and practice exercises that work toward improving balance. Some of the activities involved might include exercises like standing on one leg and practicing heel-to-toe walking.
Strength Exercises
Seniors might not realize it, but as they lose strength, they also experience increased fall risk. Rebuilding muscle tone and strength also helps seniors to improve stability and balance. Physical therapists work with seniors to create strength training programs that target problem areas and the muscles necessary to perform daily tasks like standing up from a chair or walking safely up a set of stairs. Seniors might be wary of strength training, but it can be done with bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, or handheld weights, depending on individual needs and abilities.
Environmental Modifications
Physical therapy helps a lot, especially in a setting like an adult day center, where seniors can easily access this assistance. But there might be some environmental modifications necessary at home, like removing clutter and installing handrails in areas like the bathroom. Adult day centers ensure that seniors have a safe space in which to spend time, and they can help family caregivers to create a safe space at home, too.
Education and Awareness
Education and awareness are also essential components of fall prevention. Physical therapists can offer education that seniors and family caregivers need in order to help reduce fall risk factors at home and everywhere else, too. If patients need additional help with remaining safe from falling, physical therapists might have other recommendations that can help significantly.
Fall prevention is a crucial issue for seniors everywhere that they go. Being able to access physical therapy services in an adult day center setting allows seniors to have expert help along with social opportunities, assistance with daily tasks, and so much more. Finding the help that they need ensures seniors are able to maintain independence and quality of life for as long as possible.
Oxnard Family Circle: Safe, Reliable, Social and Fun!
If you need respite and/or help with caring for your loved one in any corner of Ventura County, CA (Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Ventura, Camarillo, etc.), talk to the caring staff at Oxnard Family Circle ADHC. today. 1-805-385-4180
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