If you have had any prior experience with a physiotherapist, it is clear they have the knowledge and skill to offer more than just a short term relief in the early stages of your rehabilitation.
Physiotherapy plays an important role in education to their patients and greater society in the prevention of injury and disease.
I would like to take the opportunity to provide a brief on falls which pose an increasing threat to the older individual.
The latest intergenerational report predicts that the proportion of Australians aged 65 and older will increase from 13 per cent in 2010 to 23 per cent by 2050.
Falls in older people can be prevented with well designed intervention programs. It is best you speak to a professional to get one of these done. It does involve a thorough assessment and in some cases monitoring.
Your therapist is able to liaise with other professionals to structure a program specific to your requirements. Physiotherapists are well equipped with how to deliver exercise that prevent falls and enhance balance and physical abilities.
Many therapists do already run such classes. An example of such a program for an adult over the age of 65 and 50-64 year olds with chronic conditions:
- Moderately intense aerobic exercise 30 mins a day, five days a week.
Or
- Vigorously intense aerobic exercise 20 mins a day, three days a week.
And
- 8-10 strength-training exercises, 10-15 repetitions of each exercise two or three time per week.
And
- Specific balance exercises for those with risks of falling.
And
Have a physical activity plan.
As you can see, this may require the help of a professional. Especially in the early stages until you feel you can self-manage. It is not complicated, just specific to your needs.
Being active can be fun and social. Ask your therapist to assist with your options in your local community networks. Here are some examples of where you can find out some more:
1) Australia and New Zealand falls Prevention Society. (http://www.anzfallsprevention.org)
2) Otago Exercise Programme manual available for purchase. (http://preview.tinyurl.com./y9er8oz )
Get out and get active.
Please don’t hesitate to email me for references relating to this article.
