What Does Geriatric Physical Therapy Involve?

Late in the 1980's geriatric physical therapy was recognized in the medical field as a specialty and since the introduction of this specific medical specialty many people have benefited from this. This kind of study deals with helping older people or the adults who have experienced or are experiencing different physical ailments such as, but not limited to, cancer and osteoporosis.

Through geriatric physical therapy anyone has the chance to live a more comfortable and a healthier life. We all know that balance and strength are very important for adults especially those individuals who are in their 60s and older. Majority of the aging population have problems with balance, strength and this makes moving around difficult for them. But with care, support from their family and regular physical treatment it is possible for them to move around, do simple tasks and be able to live a normal life. That is why geriatric physical therapy is really important.

It is not only helping individuals do their everyday physical activity that is being addressed by geriatric therapy but it also helps raise the self-worth and confidence of the adult when they are able to perform simple tasks. One of the very reason why many old people have back sore is the inability to move around. This will happen if the person has experienced stroke, osteoporosis, arthritis or any physical ailments that disables the person to move around. With the aid of a geriatric physical therapist, a person can have the hope of being able to move around and do simple things like taking a walk on the park, picking fresh flowers from the garden or perhaps feeding a bird pet or patting a pet dog.

Physical therapy is usually only utilized by people who have met an accident thus disabling them to perform their day to day activities. But, lately, even the healthy old-aged people have recognized the importance and benefits of undergoing regular therapy. Yes, it is beneficial for people who are in their advanced age to undergo regular physical therapy to prevent serious physical ailments.

Perhaps you are wondering what geriatric physical therapy encompasses. There are many forms of geriatric physical therapy but the most common and popular form of therapy is exercise. Once the therapist had conducted a series of test to its patient, he will then assign corresponding physical activities to address the patient's ailments. The set of physical activities or simply called exercises are aimed to help the patient move freely. This will target the person's physical coordination, balance, motor skills and most of all in strengthening the muscles.