Therapies to Prevent Injuries in Adults and Seniors

Strength and control are taken away from us as we get older. As adults and seniors, we need to be much more careful to prevent injuries.

When we are young, we take for granted the control we have over our bodies. There is a certain strength and level of balance that allows us to stay safely on our feet. If we do fall over, we just get straight back up again.

This loss of control, balance and strength as we age makes us more prone to falls. They are the biggest cause of injury among the older population. It’s estimated that around 40 percent of US citizens over the age of 65, fall at least once every year.

Falling over can result in a huge variety of injuries including cuts and bruises, fractures, sprains and head trauma. But help is at hand in the form of therapy.

physical & occupational therapies at fairview rehab & nursing home

How therapy helps to prevent injuries

The key is to identifying the weaknesses within our bodies. As we age, our muscles decrease in size and strength. We lose bone tissue which changes the structure of our bones. They become weaker putting us more at risk of breakages. The cartilage in our joints gets thinner, and, combined with less fluid to lubricate them, become stiff. Ligaments also shorten meaning we have less flexibility.

By exercising these areas of weakness, we can restore some of the control and strength that is lost. With regular physical and occupational therapy sessions, we can help to prevent injuries.

Occupational therapy

In order to prevent falls, occupational therapists try to understand the risk factors involved in everyday activities. With so many changes happening to our aging bodies, we may need to adapt the way we approach certain things.

By improving motor skills and ability, you can bring your body under control. Balance and coordination are also areas to focus on. Taking care when we move and being stable on our feet is important to preventing a fall. From climbing stairs to getting in and out of the bath, occupational therapy can help you do simple activities safely.

Physical therapy

Exercising can help stave off and reverse age-related changes and prevent injuries. By improving the strength in our muscles we can get back the ability to control our body. Through stretching exercises, we will gain more flexibility allowing us to move with more agility. Massage and manipulation can be used to loosen tissue which has become tight in the joints.

With a personalized therapy plan, you can build on increasing both muscle and bone mass. Preventing a fall is the main aim to strive for. However, if you do fall, physical therapy will also help minimize the chance of it resulting in an injury.

Here at Fairview Rehab and Nursing Home in Queens, NY, the wellbeing of you or your loved one is our top priority. We offer a range of customized therapy programs designed to help keep everyone safe. If you would like further information on therapies to prevent injuries in adults and seniors, contact us today.

This article contains informational and educational materials and does not replace health or medical advice. For questions or concerns regarding your medical condition or health objectives, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.