Ageing naturally brings a lot of changes—both physical and mental—that can impact our daily lives and independence. Our bones may become less dense, muscles weaken, and body fat increases, all of which can affect mobility, coordination, and balance, making us more prone to falls and injuries. But ageing doesn’t have to mean giving up your independence. 

This is where physiotherapy comes in. Physiotherapists are equipped to help older adults stay healthy, active, and self-reliant by addressing the unique challenges that come with ageing. 

 

Unlock insider access to the best movement plans for free! Sign up today. 

 

We spoke to Dr. Vinay Aindala, physiotherapist at UR.Life about the benefits of physiotherapy for older people. He explains that physiotherapy plays a vital role in the comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), a strategy designed to enhance outcomes for older adults, especially those facing the challenges of frailty. By incorporating a CGA approach, we elevate the standards of orthogeriatric care and tap into the exciting new field of perioperative surgical care for older individuals. This holistic approach not only empowers older patients but also paves the way for more effective and compassionate healthcare tailored to their unique needs.

 

Related story: The Many Benefits of Physiotherapy: Pain Management Guide For Desk Jobs

 

Benefits of Physiotherapy As You Get Older

1. Improves mobility and flexibility: Physiotherapy helps you stay mobile in your golden years. By focusing on joint flexibility and building muscle strength, it offers personalised exercises and stretching routines that keep stiffness at bay. Imagine effortlessly gardening, taking long walks, or playing with your grandkids—physiotherapy makes these cherished activities accessible and enjoyable. 

2. Improves balance and fall prevention: As we get older, it's common for our balance to become less stable, which can make the risk of falls a real concern. Physiotherapy is tailored exercises that not only boost your balance and coordination but also empower you to move with confidence.

3. Manages pain without medication: Many older adults suffer from conditions like arthritis and chronic pain, but there's good news: physiotherapy provides a decrease in discomfort and a boost in your overall well-being through the power of skilled hands. From soothing massages to the innovative use of ultrasound therapy and customised exercises, physiotherapy helps manage pain and enhance your quality of life.

4. Increases strength and endurance: As we age, muscle loss can feel like an inevitable part of the journey. However, physiotherapy offers a powerful solution through strength-building exercises that can make a real difference. By enhancing your muscle tone and endurance, these workouts not only boost your physical capabilities but also empower you to tackle daily activities with ease. 

5. Enhances heart health: Looking to give your heart a healthy boost? Cardiovascular exercises, highly recommended by physiotherapists, can work wonders for your overall health! Not only do they enhance circulation and lower blood pressure, but they also play a vital role in preventing age-related issues, such as heart disease and stroke. 

6. Betters mental health: Staying active and independent is a major boost to mental health. Physiotherapy encourages regular movement, which releases endorphins and keeps your mood elevated. It can also provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, contributing to a happier, more positive outlook on ageing.

7. Improves posture and reduces back pain: Poor posture can cause back pain and lead to discomfort. Physiotherapists work on alignment and posture correction, which can alleviate back pain and make standing or sitting for long periods much more comfortable.

 

Related story: A Physio's Favourite Exercises to Improve Mobility

 

Unlock insider access to the best movement plans for free! Sign up today. 

 

Physiotherapy is a powerful tool for preserving health, mobility, and independence as we age. It goes beyond just physical benefits—physiotherapy can improve mental well-being, boost confidence, and foster a greater sense of control over the ageing process. By addressing everything from joint stiffness to balance issues, physiotherapy allows older adults to continue enjoying the activities they love and maintain a high quality of life. 

Click here, to get general therapy consultation, cardiac rehab, neuro rehab, and geriatric rehab. 

 

Rehabilitation Programs Offered At UR.Life

UR Life Studio offers the following programs under its Lifestyle Management and Therapeutic Programs (LMTP) unit:

• Cardiac Rehabilitation
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation
• Neuro Rehabilitation
• Ortho Rehabilitation
• Paediatric Rehabilitation
• Geriatric Rehabilitation
• Obesity Management
• Diabetes management

 
The following are the USPs of LMTP:

• Holistic Rehabilitation Approach: involves the medical, physical, and mental aspects of overall health
• Telemetry Supervised Rehabilitation: a state-of-the-art technique to provide optimal health care
• Hydrotherapy
• Six Minutes Walk Test
• Hydraulics (circuit training studio)
• VO2 max testing (equipment under servicing)
• Myo motion analysis (equipment under servicing)
• Detailed Physical Assessment
• Wellbeing Counselling
• Diet Counselling