Geriatric Care

Geriatric Care in Physiotherapy

Aging is a natural part of life, starting the moment we are born. While many of us may never fully embrace the inevitability of growing old, aging eventually arrives, often unannounced. As we age, the roles reverse, and it becomes the younger generation’s responsibility to care for the elderly. Accepting the need for help can be a difficult reality for many, especially in cultures that emphasize youth and often hide the signs of aging. Facing this reality can help us cultivate a healthier relationship with aging.

Aging involves irreversible, progressive changes that affect cells, tissues, organs, and the overall individual. Physiologically, normal aging is characterized by a gradual decrease in organ system reserves, reduced homeostatic controls, and a higher prevalence of disease. As we age, muscle tone and movement range decrease, motor coordination is impaired, and respiratory capacity diminishes.

Functional Diagnosis

Anamnesis: Review of personal and family health history.
Cardiorespiratory Assessment: Evaluation of heart and lung function.
Locomotor Assessment: Assessment of muscle atrophies, joint mobility, strength, resistance, and arthralgia.
Nervous System: Evaluation of coordination, reflexes, sensitivity, proprioception, and kinesthesia.
General Somatic Control: Analysis of stature, weight, and body mass index (BMI).

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Example of an Exercise Program

The exercise program focuses on improving overall function, with a balance of strength, flexibility, and aerobic fitness.

Warm-up: 5 minutes (e.g., brisk walking).
Flexibility & Coordination Exercises: 10 minutes (e.g., dancing steps, both symmetrical and asymmetrical).
Strengthening: 10 minutes (e.g., using small weights or gadgets).
Aerobic Exercise: 30 minutes (e.g., cycling or jogging).
Cool Down: 5 minutes (e.g., walking slowly).

Frequency: 3 to 5 times per week.

Focus Areas of the Program

Flexibility & Coordination: Enhances the integration of both brain hemispheres.
Muscle Strengthening: Focuses on improving muscle tone and strength.
Aerobic Exercise: Central to the program, improving cardiovascular and musculoskeletal strength.
Breathing Exercises: As age decreases respiratory capacity, strengthening the diaphragm and intercostal muscles through targeted breathing exercises is vital for maintaining lung function and improving lung volume.

By incorporating these elements into a comprehensive care plan, geriatric patients can enjoy enhanced mobility, strength, and overall well-being.

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Re-Live Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic

89, Zareen Heights, 1st Floor, Nagavarapalya Main Road, C.V. Raman Nagar, Bangalore 560093