As we age, staying active and mobile becomes more important. Geriatric physical therapy uses safe, gentle exercises to support strength, balance and independence. At REPAIR SI, we are well equipped to guide older adults in moving safely.
Why geriatric PT is important
Geriatric physical therapy is important to address certain age-related changes like muscle loss, decreased bone density, balance issues and joint stiffness. Similarly, as we age, we are at an increased risk of falls and/or chronic pain, and geriatric PT is a proactive approach to maintain your independence.
7 safe, gentle exercises used in geriatric PT
Your physical therapist will let you know how many repetitions to do for each exercise.
-
Sit-to-stand
Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Try to stand up without using your hands; then slowly sit back down. This exercise strengthens your legs and improves your ability to perform simple tasks.
-
Seated marches
Sit up tall in a chair while keeping both feet on the floor. Bring one knee toward the ceiling, slowly lower it and repeat on the other side. Seated marches can promote hip mobility and allow lower body joints to move more smoothly.
-
Standing heel raises
Stand near a wall or countertop for support. Lift your heels to stand on your toes; then switch and lift your toes while keeping your heels on the floor. This exercise can strengthen your ankles and improve balance.
-
Side-step walk
Stand with your feet hip width apart, with or without a resistance band around your legs. Step to the side in a slow, controlled motion; then bring your other foot to meet it. This targets your hip muscles and may help reduce the risk of falls.
-
Single-leg stance
Stand tall while lightly holding a chair or counter for balance. Lift one foot off the floor and hold the position; then switch sides. This exercise can improve balance and ankle stability for safer walking.
-
Wall pushups
Stand facing a wall about an arm’s length away. Place your hands on the wall, shoulder width apart, and lean toward the wall before pushing back. This can strengthen your chest, shoulders and arms without stressing your joints.
-
Chair seated twists
Sitting down on a comfortable chair, keep your back straight and shoulders upright. Use your right hand to grab the back of the chair, and slowly twist your back, as if looking to the wall behind you. You can use your left hand for support by grabbing onto the outside of your right thigh. Remember to breathe as you’re twisting. Then switch and twist to the left.
How REPAIR SI supports older adults
At REPAIR SI, we take a multidisciplinary approach to physical therapy to support your overall wellness and quality of life. Our team of experts creates a personalized treatment plan for every client that accounts for their needs and goals. Our holistic, empathetic care promotes mobility and safety in every aspect of your daily life.
Growing older doesn’t have to force you to become inactive. With geriatric physical therapy, gentle, guided exercises can help you maintain mobility, strength and independence for years to come. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.