Undeniably, alzheimer’s is considered as a common ailment affecting many seniors these days. Researchers continue conducting studies about this illness to impart some knowledge and tips on how to deal with alzheimer’s. These studies have helped a lot of people carry out certain preventive measures to avoid the risk of getting this health problem.
Indeed, there are several activities associated to reducing the detrimental effects of Alzheimer’s. And one of them is home physical therapy. Some studies have shown that physical exercise has notable benefits to Alzheimer’s disease patients. On the other hand, many might wonder how it can help the afflicted ones considering that Alzheimer’s is primarily connected to memory disability. The thing is this health problem can impact certain part of the brain that control language and mind.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s to Seniors
There are three (3) different stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Here are few of the many symptoms you might notice at home.
First Stage:
Sudden forgetfulness
Poor insight
Difficulty in finding words to say
Misplacing things
Repeating questions or statements
Disoriented
Second Stage:
Deterioration of memory worsen
Inappropriate usage of words
Lack of proper hygiene
May experience hallucinations
Third Stage:
Incontinent
Uncomprehending
Bedridden
Benefits of Home Physical Therapy to Patients
Doing physical therapy session helps improve motor skills, strengthen muscles, increase endurance and decrease risk of falling. A therapy might involve different physical activities, such as walking, jogging, water aerobics, dancing and even gardening. Performing any of these activities can help the patients somehow remember certain movements. Thus, they are sharpening their memories by simply recalling the actions.
Some therapy sessions include massage specifically on the leg part of the patients. With the pressure applied on the legs, it can help the muscles relax and improve blood/oxygen circulation. Strong legs help maintain balance preventing the patient from fall or stumble. Seniors are prone to falling; it is undeniable fact. And falling is very dangerous specifically if it happens in places like bathroom, kitchen and stairs where they could get serious injury (but falling anywhere is really risky). That is why therapy plays a vital role in strengthening torso and lower extremity.
Another benefits of physical therapy is improving patient’s behavior and communication skills. Obviously in doing the routine exercise programs, patients need to communicate with the therapist. Some patients might be moody; but if you have a good therapist, these patients might change their behavior eventually. As the session continues, patients will likely improve their conversing ability this is affected by Alzheimer’s.
Why Physical Therapy at Home?
The best thing about physical therapy is that it can be executed anywhere. But for seniors, it is practical to have it at home for convenience. Physical therapy at home brings a sense of familiarity to seniors. It is never difficult to perform any routine in a familiar place. For instance, if your senior lives in a community like Lincoln Military Housing, it will be easier for them to move around in the whole neighborhood because they know the place and the people. Senior can jog or walk around with less possibility of getting lost. In addition, physical therapy at home enables the seniors to rest in their favorite place right after the session.
Considerations:
Make sure home is safe for your senior. Keep in mind essential safety precautions to avoid any mishap during the physical therapy. Home should be free from clutter and trash. This way, Alzheimer’s disease patients can truly benefit from physical therapy at home. And most importantly, choose the best physical therapist for your senior. Why this is critical? It is simply because you can rest assured that your senior is in good hand.
Author Bio:
Ashley O’connor is a blogger who aspires to promote healthy family and taking care of every member. She aims to continue spreading helpful tips to other people specifically for children and seniors through her write ups. Follow her on Twitter at @AshleyOconnor82, Google+ or add her on Facebook.