Therapists get physical, keep community residents moving
Part of staying in shape is doing the work to keep muscles flexible and the body moving.
Physical therapists, a valuable benefit of independent and assisted-living facilities, are dedicated to doing their part to address all types of issues. Residents with injuries, stiff muscles, and post-surgery therapy from knee and hip replacements will feel the effect of what these skilled professionals offer.
Laura Cunningham, program director/physical therapist at Parkway Place, said the community’s team of therapists is able to address all three disciplines of physical, occupational and speech therapy at their location. The rehabilitation team also works with doctors, residents and residents’ families.
After evaluating a resident, a plan of action can determine how best to treat the situation, whether it be in private or at the wellness center. Their goal is keeping residents as active as possible. “It’s so important because they might drop out of activities, and we don’t want that to happen. It’s very important to stay as independent as possible,” Cunningham said.
Parkway Place therapists put their “therapeutic modalities” to use for their residents. These include ultrasound, shortwave diathermy and gentle electrical stimulation. These are safe and comfortable treatments used to manage pain, retrain muscles and increase circulation for improved healing after an injury, including post-op healing.
Parkway Place therapists receive special training for each modality and for specific clinical programs includ- ing pain management, strengthening, and post-op hip and knee replacements. These modalities may be included as part of a resident’s plan of care in conjunction with manual therapy, exercise, stretching and balance training.
Aquatic therapy also is an option to assist residents with their physical therapy.
Seeing residents’ progress is extremely rewarding, Cunningham said.
“There are a lot of opportunities here. It’s a nice facility. Our residents are so thankful and appreciative. This is our extended family. I love that. It’s really a community with a small-town feel,” she said.
At The Buckingham, each resident receives a mobility and lifestyle review, which includes a balance and gait evaluation. With residents interested in staying in shape, The Buckingham aids in their quest with its four components of successful aging.
At the top of the list is physical activity, followed by exercise and social activity, along with intellectual and spiritual enhancement.
“We know seniors today are more active and informed than before,” said Cathy Lightfoot, director of marketing at The Buckingham senior retirement community. “Our focus is to encourage the residents to know that successful aging is a choice, and it’s never too late to start something new.”
The Plaza at The Buckingham, a Masterpiece Living community, is a Medicare-skilled care center and offers Medicare A and B.
With the annual reviews, the staff can ensure each resident is able to stay fit and healthy.
“We’ve seen tremendous success. We’ve actually experienced 10 percent fewer falls,” Lightfoot said.