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The Benefits of Exercise and Physical Therapy for Seniors Receiving Homecare

The Benefits of Exercise and Physical Therapy for Seniors Receiving Homecare
The Benefits of Exercise and Physical Therapy for Seniors Receiving Homecare

The Benefits of Exercise and Physical Therapy for Seniors Receiving Homecare

As we age, regular exercise and physical therapy become increasingly important for our health and independence. Seniors receiving homecare can greatly benefit from having access to an active lifestyle that is tailored to their individual needs. The benefits of exercise and physical therapy for seniors receiving homecare are vast.

Regular physical activity helps to maintain strength, mobility, memory skills, and coordination between mind and body movements, which can all improve the overall quality of life. With targeted exercises at home, many senior citizens are able to live the life they want to have, independent, mobile, and free from pain.

Improved Physical Function

The Benefits of Exercise and Physical Therapy for Seniors Receiving Homecare

Exercise and physical therapy can help maintain or improve physical function, including strength, flexibility, and balance, making it easier to perform daily activities and prevent debilitating injuries from occurring. With homecare, physical therapy sessions can be tailored to address specific needs and concerns, whether it be improving balance to prevent falls or exercises to help in the recovery from an injury or surgery, leading to an improved quality of life. This all helps seniors to stay active, and independent and enhances their overall well-being.

  • Increased Strength and Balance: Aging often leads to a loss of muscle mass and strength, which can result in decreased balance and an increased risk of falls. Exercise and physical therapy programs can help build and maintain muscle strength, enhancing balance and reducing the risk of falls.
  • Weight Management: Those who engage in regular exercise are more equipt to manage their weight. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
  • Prevention of Muscle and Bone Loss: Seniors are prone to muscle atrophy and bone density loss, which can result in weakness and fractures. Exercise, particularly weight-bearing activities, can help prevent these issues.

Did You Know?

Older adults in receipt of formal home support services have expressed a preference for being physically active through the activities they enjoy, such as walking and gardening, rather than engaging in structured exercise programs.

Pain Management

The Benefits of Exercise and Physical Therapy for Seniors Receiving Homecare

Pain management is a crucial aspect of healthcare, particularly for seniors who may experience chronic pain due to age-related conditions such as arthritis or discomfort from injuries and surgeries. Exercise and physical therapy can be valuable components of a comprehensive management strategy. Not only can it help manage pain, but it can also enhance independence. Being able to perform daily tasks can provide a sense of empowerment and control over one’s life. Through these practices, it is easier to engage in activities that are enjoyable.

  • Education and Self-Management: Physical therapists educate seniors about their conditions, pain triggers, and strategies for self-management. Teaching techniques such as proper body mechanics, posture, and ergonomic adjustments to reduce pain in daily activities.
  • Post-Surgery Recovery: Many people receive homecare after surgeries, such as joint replacements or orthopedic procedures. Physical therapy plays a critical role in post-surgery recovery by guiding patients through exercises and techniques to regain strength and mobility while managing pain.
  • Prevention of Secondary Health Issues: Chronic pain can lead to secondary health issues such as depression, sleep disturbances, and reduced physical activity. By effectively managing pain through exercise and physical therapy, seniors can reduce the risk of these associated problems.

Enhanced Independence

The Benefits of Exercise and Physical Therapy for Seniors Receiving Homecare

Not only does regular physical activity help to prevent illness and improve mental health, but it can also provide enhanced independence in order to continue living comfortably at home. This results in the confidence to meet friends and family knowing that they are fit and strong enough to do so. It reduces a reliance on caregivers for daily tasks and reinvigorates independence which is so important to live a stress-free, happy life.

  • Cognitive Benefits: Regular physical activity has been shown to have cognitive benefits, such as improved memory and mental clarity. These benefits can help to make better decisions about care and daily routines, further promoting independence.
  • Social Interaction: Participating in group exercise classes or physical therapy sessions gives opportunities for social interaction. These interactions can combat social isolation and contribute to a sense of independence and community.
  • Home Safety: Physical therapists can assess the home environment to identify potential safety hazards and recommend modifications to reduce the risk of accidents, this further promotes independence.

Homecare with Care 24-7

• The Care 24-7 team use the right skills and knowledge to establish the kind of homecare needed.
• Whether this be related to physical therapy or medication management.
• Our team works with local NHS, council and private clients to ensure that person-centred care plans are developed.
• This level of care means you can stay in the right place, your home and remain independent for longer.

It is important for seniors to maintain their dignity and self-sufficiency as they age. Not only can it help maintain health but it also offers the potential for a higher quality of life. It can be challenging to find activities which are appropriate and meaningful for older adults at this crucial stage in their lives, however with the right resources and support, they can thrive.

Exercise and physical therapy sessions give seniors an extra boost of confidence knowing they’re still able to do something active and be proactive in their healthcare. Homecare is designed for those who need a little extra assistance maintaining independence while ensuring they are comfortable, safe, and supported throughout their daily lives. With the right care available to them, they can feel empowered, invigorated, and healthy.

Want to know more about our homecare services?

Speak to our friendly team today.

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5 Ways to Help Your Loved One Maintain Their Independence at Home

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider
Careworker and elderly woman

5 Ways to Help Your Loved One Maintain Their Independence at Home

As our parents and grandparents age, it is important to create an environment that nurtures their independence for longer. Fortunately, there are many ways to do this and with our 5 ways to help your loved one maintain their independence at home, families can ensure they maintain a good quality of life for as long as possible.

1. Safety modifications

As our loved ones age, their safety becomes a top priority. It can be a difficult and emotional transition when they begin to require modifications to their home environment but with their help, they can continue to live comfortably in their homes. These changes can include anything from grab bars in the bathroom to ramps for wheelchair accessibility. With compassion and understanding, the following adjustments can be made to their homes and provide the peace of mind they deserve.

  • Grab bars: installed in key areas like bathrooms, hallways and bedrooms to provide extra support and stability.
  • Improved lighting: sufficient lighting helps to prevent falls and accidents at night time.
  • Stair lifts: can make it easy for your loved one to move around their home. This prevents a risk of falls.
  • Bathroom modifications: from non-slip mats to raised toilet seats and walk-in showers, these can prevent accidents.
  • Wheelchair ramps: installing ramps makes it easier to enter and leave their house when using a mobility aid. This allows them to move around more freely.

Speaking with an Occupational Therapist or carrying out research, can really help when deciding what kind of modifications to make that will benefit everyone involved. You can contact your healthcare professional about a referral for an Occupational Therapist.

2. Stay connected

As families of elderly loved ones, our primary goal is to ensure their well-being and quality of life. Staying connected is critical whether they need to contact a family member or have an emergency they need help with. This can be done through the following ways:

  • Videos calls: allow family members to stay in touch without intruding on their space.
  • Alarm systems: help them to feel safer while living alone. These can be personalised fall alarms or house alarms.
  • Youtube videos: provides assistance with exercise routines and personal development videos.
  • In-home cameras: provides a sense of security as to who might be entering their home.
  • Telehealth services: provides them with medical support through video calls where their medical needs can be catered to.

By building a support network with family, friends and care providers, they can feel empowered to take charge of their lives. It helps our loved ones maintain their independence at home and leads to healthy, happier lives.

Did You know?

All regions in England are projected to have a greater proportion of people aged 65 years and over by mid-2028.

5 Ways to Help Your Loved One Maintain Their Independence at Home

3. Homecare services

Homecare services can be a great option for your loved one for many reasons. Working with experienced caregivers and through personalised support it can meet their unique needs and preferences. With the right care plan in place, it helps them to maintain their sense of self while also providing peace of mind for everyone involved.

At Care 24-7, we are committed to supporting independence, dignity and privacy and our staff are fully trained to provide care that promotes health, safety and wellbeing.

Some of our homecare services:

Personal homecare:
• Bathing, showering and meal preparation.
• Medication support or management.

Practical homecare:
• Respite for family carers.
• Collecting pension and paying bills.

You can trust and have confidence knowing your loved one is in safe hands with competent homecare that takes pride in delivering high quality care. Allowing your loved one to stay in the right place, their home.

4. Delivery services

Delivery services can bring the essentials right to their doorstep so they get what they need without having to leave the comfort and safety of their own home. With so many great delivery options available, there’s never been a better time to explore these services. Deliveries can come in the form of:

  • Weekly food shop deliveries.
  • Meals delivered from their favourite restaurants.
  • Medication deliveries from pharmacies and doctors.

This allows them to feel like they are accomplishing what they need to do on their own and within their own homes. Not only does this help them feel more in control of their lives, but it puts everyone’s mind at ease, knowing that they have everything they need without having to navigate unfamiliar stores or public spaces

5. Promote physical activities

One of the most effective ways families can support their loved ones in staying independent is through regular exercise and by taking up hobbies. Engaging in physical activity can increase strength, improve balance and coordination, and boost energy levels. It can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can help minimise the risk of depression and dementia. Other health benefits include reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and arthritis. Physical activities don’t have to be too strenuous and can come in the form of:

  • Walking: even a walk around the garden can help to boost morale.
  • Tai Chi: provides relief from arthritis and improves balance, stability, and flexibility.
  • Light yoga: this can be done at home and helps to improve co-ordination and mental clarity.
  • Painting: boosts morale and keeps them mentally busy. Also helps with co-ordination and focus.

By encouraging elderly relatives to adopt a regular exercise routine, they will be better equipped to continue living independently and enjoying the things they love. Exercising at home is a convenient and effective solution. with the right guidance, support, and equipment.

5 Ways to Help Your Loved One Maintain Their Independence at Home

Through the above 5 steps, from safety modifications to promoting physical activities, your loved one will be living an independent life, safe in the knowledge they are still being well cared for. With thoughtful proactive planning and the implementation of these tips, you can provide your loved one with a dignified home life as they age. At Care 24-7, our aim is to help you achieve this.

Find out more about our homecare services today.

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