Occupational therapy can help seniors by helping them maintain their flexibility, dexterity, and mobility. One of the reasons why seniors are encouraged to start occupational therapy as early as possible is that it’s easier for seniors to hang onto their flexibility and dexterity longer by doing occupational therapy exercises now. Occupational therapy can be done at home or in the office of an occupational therapist. If your senior parent no longer drives in-home care providers can help your senior parent get to medical appointments. In-home care for seniors can also help set up home occupational therapy for your senior parent.
Some of the other reasons why you should consider enrolling your senior parent in occupational therapy now are:
It Helps Seniors Stay Independent
Occupational therapy focuses on improving individuals’ ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) independently. For seniors, this can include tasks like dressing, cooking, bathing, and managing medications. Working on strengthening the muscles needed to perform these tasks helps seniors keep their independence and ability to take care of themselves longer.
Fall Prevention
As seniors get older they usually will lose some of their mobility and balance, which means a higher risk of falls at home. Occupational therapy incorporates exercises and interventions to improve strength, coordination, and balance. For seniors, occupational therapy can lower the risk of falls at home and help seniors move more confidently around their homes.
Cognitive Skill Retention
Occupational therapy isn’t about physical movement. It also provides cognitive stimulation and helps seniors retain their cognitive skills. For seniors looking to keep their minds sharp and engaged, occupational therapists can provide activities and exercises that stimulate cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving skills. Seniors who have dementia or Alzheimer’s can benefit from starting occupational therapy soon after diagnosis.
Proactive Approach To Health
While many seniors do start occupational therapy after they have an illness or injury they don’t need to wait until then to start. Starting occupational therapy early is a great way for seniors to take a proactive approach to maintaining their health and staying independent.
Learning To Use Assistive Devices Correctly
If your senior parent needs to use a walker, a wheelchair, or other assistive devices occupational therapy can teach them the correct body position and movements they need to use those devices. By learning the right way to hold themselves and use assistive devices they can prevent future injuries or muscle loss.
Pain Management
Chronic health conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia can cause a lot of pain for seniors. Instead of relying on strong medications to dull the pain occupational therapy uses stretching, muscle movement, and other exercises to help reduce chronic pain. By focusing on things like good posture, muscle strength, and flexibility seniors who have chronic pain may be able to manage their pain better.
Talk to your senior parent’s doctor to find out if occupational therapy is something that your senior would benefit from. Their doctor should be able to provide a referral to a qualified local occupational therapist who is experienced in working with seniors.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care Services in Statham GA, please contact the caring staff at Athens Advance Care, LLC today! (706) 705-2290
Providing exceptional home care in Athens, Watkinsville, North High Shoals, Winterville, Bogart, Commerce, Jefferson, Statham, Arcade, Bishop, and surrounding areas.
We understand that one solution does not fit every situation that’s why we take the time to listen and learn about each client’s needs and preferences.Understandably, most seniors prefer to stay in the familiar comfort of their own homes. This is more doable than you may think. We can arrange for non-medical visits performed by registered nurses and licensed home care aides. Our mission is to provide our clients with affordable private home care services. By providing your loved one with quality in-home care, your loved one will be in an environment that is familiar.
We are always trying to find new and better ways to deliver in-home care to our clients, family, and caregivers. It helps us connect with our communities, share our knowledge, be accessible 24/7, innovate, lead, and raise the bar. In fact, it has helped us create an in-home care experience we believe is second to none, and are confident you’ll agree.
Our company is based on the belief that our client’s needs are of the utmost importance. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat clients and referrals.
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