Welcome to
Geriatric Physiotherapy Regular physical activity has been shown to have important beneficial effects on physical and mental well-being across all age groups. There are very few medical conditions that regular exercise doesn’t help to prevent, reduce the risk of developing, or improve symptoms. Physical activity in older adults can benefit from participation in regular physical activity. The potential effects of exercise on the health of older adults include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Reduced risk of developing coronary heart disease, stroke, certain types of cancers and diabetes, these problems come under non-communicable disease (NCDs), Prevention of post-menopausal osteoporosis and protection against osteoporotic fractures by reducing the risk of falls, A reduction in accidental falls, A reduction in loneliness and isolation, along with a reduction in depression, which may be as effective as antidepressants, A reduction in the complications of immobility, such as deep vein thrombosis and pressure sores.
Geriatric Physiotherapy Keeps Elderly Physically Active Being active from an early age can help prevent many diseases just as regular movement and activity can help relieve the disability and pain associated with these conditions. Importantly, the benefits of physical activity can be enjoyed even if regular practice starts late in life. It has been suggested that older adults engaged in regular physical activity demonstrate improved: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Balance and proprioception Strength Coordination and motor control (better control over daily activities) Flexibility Endurance (carry out activities for longer duration without much fatigue)
Consequently, physical activity can reduce falls risk, a major older age cause of disability.
Exercises Recommended for Older Adults in Geriatric Physiotherapy
1. 2. 3.
Aerobic activity depending upon older adult’s aerobic fitness, Activities that maintain or increase flexibility are recommended, and Balance and proprioception exercises are recommended for older adults at risk of falls.
Implications of maintaining physical activity in older adults Reducing and postponing age-related disability is an essential public health measure and physical activity can play an important role in creating and sustaining well-being at all ages. ‘Move for health’ is WHO’s world health initiative and response to the fact that: 1. 2. 3.
Each year at least 1.9 million people die as a result of physical inactivity. At least 30 minutes of regular, moderate-intensity physical activity on 5 days per week reduces the risk of several non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Physical inactivity is an independent modifiable risk factor for common NCDs.
Contact us on our Email roshan.physio@gmail.com OR Visit our website painfreephysiotherapy.com
Thanks For Visiting Our Site