An important part of senior care for older adults is adjusting their care services to accommodate changes in their physical health. There are several physical conditions that can be treated with therapy to improve their quality of life. Below are three examples of common ailments, their causes, and the best way to treat them.

Common Physical Challenges in Older Adults

1. Speech Limitations

Overcoming speech and communication limitations is a common focus in senior care. Often caused by a stroke on the left side of the brain—which houses the ability to speak—these difficulties can include loss of vocabulary, difficulty moving the mouth and tongue to pronounce sounds, inability to clearly communicate thoughts, and difficulties connecting concrete stimuli to words. Speech therapy, when integrated as part of an assisted living environment, helps patients regain their grasp on language, ability to clearly enunciate, and cognitive connections. Specific therapy exercises can include repeated stretches and movements of the tongue and mouth, practicing common words and sentences, using flashcards to aid in vocabulary recall, and more.

2. Hip Injury & Pain

Ailments of the hip are also common, whether caused by loss of cartilage, degenerative bone diseases, or replacement surgery. Physical therapy focuses on restoring a fuller range of motion and learning ways to do necessary tasks with minimal discomfort and strain. Stretching and massaging achieve this, while more involved exercises assist with pain tolerance and building muscle strength.

3. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis affects cartilage in seniors’ joints, degenerating it and the underlying bone to cause pain, difficulty moving, and swelling. It most commonly affects hands, interfering with daily tasks like buttoning shirts, opening jars, turning doorknobs, opening medications, tying shoes, holding dishes, and more. In senior care, occupational therapy offers a comprehensive approach to help your loved one maintain their independent living and perform daily tasks. With osteoarthritis, the therapist can recommend assistive devices, such as custom splints or cushions, and educate the patient on how to carry out tasks with minimal joint pressure and pain, such as with easy-open pill dispensers.

In Central Ohio, Abbington Assisted Living will give your loved one the reliable senior care they deserve at one of their five locations: Abbington of Arlington, Pickerington, or Powell, Liberty Village of Chillicothe, and Windsorwood Place of Coshocton. Physical therapy services are available on-site, and conducted by licensed professionals. Abbington fosters a family atmosphere with comprehensive, personalized services. Visit them online to learn more; or, contact their Chillicothe location at (740) 773-4630.