As we go through different stages in life, from childhood, adolescence and adulthood into our senior years, it becomes even more important to adopt a healthy lifestyle. As they say, prevention is always better than cure.
Common conditions and illnesses experienced by seniors:
As one grows older, there are changes in the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, endocrine systems. Some common conditions and illnesses include:
- Mental health issues
- Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and other musculoskeletal disorders
- Chronic diseases (heart disease, respiratory diseases and diabetes)
- Sexual dysfunction
- Menopause in women and andropause in men
- Risk of cancer
By addressing common risk factors and improving overall health and wellness, it is possible to maintain and enhance the quality of life as one grows older. Healthy eating, physical activity, avoiding smoking, conservative use of alcohol and the practice of mental wellness can reduce or even prevent common diseases. A physical therapist can help you improve your health and wellness with a well-balanced exercise and injury prevention program.
Vitality Through the Years…
It is never too late to start a health and fitness program. Progressive exercise can increase strength, improve flexibility and boost quality of life for individuals of all ages.
Tips for improving mobility and pain management for seniors:
- After a comprehensive initial evaluation to assess your current fitness levels (and goals), a progressive exercise program consisting of isometric or isotonic exercises will be prescribed by your physical therapist.
- For individuals diagnosed with cardiovascular or respiratory diseases, ask a physician if exercise is right for you, and then contact a physical therapist.
- Consult a nutritionist for advice on a healthy eating plan. Calorie restriction is an essential part of weight loss.
- Make a conscious effort to walk (or be more active) around the house and at work.
- Identify exercises that you enjoy and do them as often as your body allows. A little bit of soreness for a day or two is a good thing, but contact your physical therapist if you feel any sharp pain that gets worse.
- Invest in comfortable footwear. This will encourage you to walk, exercise more and reduce the risk of injuries to the joints.
- Find an ‘exercise buddy’ to help you stay motivated and accountable.
With the right combination of breathing, warm up and the correct technique, you can reduce the probability of injury significantly. If you have aches and pains that get worse during the winter, it may be time to see a physical therapist. Your therapist will assess your current activity levels and functional limitations. The therapist will discuss your short term and long term goals. All this information will be used to devise a plan of action to treat the underlying cause of pain as quickly as possible.
Be Proactive About Your Health!
To prevent injuries and to have the best possible experience, it is important for seniors to consult with a physical therapist. The physical therapist will evaluate your current capabilities and take medical conditions and medications (among other things) into consideration. Fall prevention in particular, is an important precaution.
The therapist will use several procedures and modalities to promote the healing and rehabilitation of muscles, bones and joints. Some of them include:
- Ultrasound to heal connective tissue (tendons and ligaments).
- Manual therapy which includes mobilizations, manipulations and massage.
- Resistance training to boost muscle strength.
- Cold compress for acute injuries and heat to relax muscular spasms.
- Low level laser for muscle and connective tissue injuries.
- Functional electrical stimulation to restore muscle strength.
The sooner you work with a physical therapist, the better. If you or someone you know is over the age of 50, advise them to take steps to be proactive about their health. Call us today and learn more about what physical therapy can do for you.
