For older adults, physical therapy is often prescribed to help improve mobility following an accident or a medical setback, such as a fall, a stroke, a broken bone, or a surgical procedure. It may also be used to help the patient better cope with chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis.
In these instances, physical therapy encompasses a larger goal beyond simply returning function or strengthening an injured area. Physical therapy for older adults can have these benefits beyond typical PT for younger patients:
Reducing the risk of a future fall — Falls are the leading cause of accidents among seniors, and PT will move beyond the recovery from a current fall to preventing another fall in the future.
Lowering the risk of injury — PT for seniors may work to maintain stability to reduce the risks of injury or re-injury.
Decreasing pain from chronic conditions — PT can help a patient deal with the pain and inconvenience of conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, or osteoporosis.
Lessening the need for prescription drugs — PT can reduce a senior patient’s need for various prescription medications.
Maintaining independence — PT can allow older patients to maintain their independent lifestyle rather than having to change to a living situation with more involved care.