Why Physical Therapy is Important for Older Americans

With the aging baby boomer generation, one of the things we’ve seen at Core PT is more senior citizens coming through our door. This is a good thing, as physical therapy has many health benefits for older Americans, including keeping them independent longer. With May being Older Americans month, we thought we would go over a few reasons why they can benefit from PT:

1. It lessens their chance of a fall
   The CDC estimates that falls are the leading cause of injury and death in older Americans. There are a number of reasons for this, such as worsening eyesight, a decreased sense of balance and medications that cause dizziness. Our vestibular therapy program can help reduce dizziness and increase overall balance.
2. It can mitigate the impacts of osteoporosis
   One of the reasons why falls can be so deadly for older Americans is because they’re more susceptible to breaking a bone, especially if they have osteoporosis. However, exercise and strength training can increase bone strength. Physical therapists show senior citizens how to exercise in a safe way that can mitigate the effects of osteoporosis.
3. The effects of arthritis can be decreased
   Arthritis strikes senior citizens in the joints, and this joint pain can lead to lowered mobility and an increased risk for a fall. Strength conditioning learned through physical therapy sessions can alleviate the symptoms of arthritis by preserving and strengthening the use of the joints.
4. It can address their pain
   More doctors are opting to send their patients to the physical therapist for pain instead of prescribing medicine, and for good reason! Physical therapists can work muscles, demonstrate stretches and prescribe a series of exercises that can address pain just as well as medication, all without being addictive.

If you’re worried about mom and dad’s ability to remain independent, talk to them about making an appointment with Core PT. In the state of Iowa, most insurance providers don’t require that you have a doctor’s referral to see a physical therapist. If you’re ready to end your back pain, make an appointment with us today!