Geriatric Rehabilitation
Role of physiotherapy in geriatrics
Geriatric Rehabilitation aims to restore functions or enhance residual functional capability and improving the quality of life in the elderly.
Aging makes our body go through many physical changes, causing a decline in muscle strength, bone density, body balance and coordination, joint stiffness and can lead to falls and fractures.
Exercise programs set by a physiotherapist can help in reducing body pain, enhancing the movement of joints, facilitating coordination, and also boosting respiratory functions.
Goal
One of the primary goals of physical therapeutic procedures in the elderly is the restoration and maintenance of functional autonomy in daily activities.
Area of concern in geriatrics
- Joint Pain from chronic conditions
- Muscle weakness and joint stiffness
- Postural Instability and Balance Impairment
- Risk of fall and injury
Benefits of physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is vital for restoring function, reducing pain and thus improving the quality of life.
The regimes include:-
- Regular exercises that result in improving balance, strength, coordination, motor control, flexibility, endurance, and even memory enhancement.
- It Helps to maintain cognitive functions, reduces the risk of heart diseases and the risk of falls.
- Helps to reduce the impact of illnesses that are more likely to affect older people.
- Physiotherapy has proven to be beneficial for elderly suffering from conditions like joint stiffness, muscles stiffness and weakness, and overall body movement in case of diseases like Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, and neurological issues.
- It helps in maintaining mobility and independence and also helps in improving cardio-respiratory functions.
- It also helps to maintain their ability to carry out day to day activities.
Physiotherapy treatment
Physiotherapist aims to help and address the areas which require treatment. The therapist post individual assessment designs a customized program.
The program includes:-
- Strengthening exercises
- Range of movement and flexibility
- Breathing exercises
- Balance and walking
Physiotherapy also includes electro modalities for pain management such as:-
- Interferential therapy
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
- Ultra-sound
- Muscle stimulator
- Bio-feedback
- Wax bath
- Hot fomentation and cold therapy
Advance equipments
Physiotherapists also use certain advanced equipments based on individual requirements. These include:-
- Un weigh harness system
- Functional electrical stimulator
- Sense-Balance board
- Pablo for virtual training and movement therapy
- Active and passive Thera-trainer
Help them gain their lost mobility! Help them live with Dignity!
Neuro-disabled patients deserve a comprehensive treatment ensuring their economical & emotional independence.
