_edited.jpg)
Geriatric (Elderly) Rehabilitation
Why is Geriatric Rehab important?
"In Singapore, about 1/3 of older adults aged 60 years and above have fallen more than once." (Healthhub article)
Falls can be dangerous, and even fatal, especially for older adults with osteoporosis (low bone density) where their bones are weaker and more brittle. This leads to increased fracture risk if they fall. The most common fracture after a fall is hip fracture.
To reduce fall risk, older adults need to exercise. Exercise may sound like a "crazy" idea for the elderly but in the hands of a physiotherapist, it is the medicine required to treat falls.
How will Geriatric Rehab help?
-
Improve strength and balance
-
Improve coordination and reaction time
-
Learn fall prevention and fall recovery strategies
-
Learn about creating a safe environment at home to prevent falls
-
Improve confidence and reduce fear of falling
Who will benefit from Geriatric Rehab?
-
Frequent fallers (at least 1-2 times per year)
-
Those with balance difficulties
-
Those currently using walking aids for assistance
-
Those who lead a sedentary lifestyle
-
Those with pre-existing conditions that increases fall risk
What kind of intervention do we do?
-
Conduct fall assessments to identify main problems and treat them in order of priority
-
Balance, coordination and reaction time training - main focus for fallers
-
Functional strengthening of core muscles and major upper and lower limb muscles that are essential to protect and prevent fall incidents
-
Mobility training - learning to walk with or without aids, climb stairs, cross kerbs or obstacles in the community etc.
-
Fall recovery training - learning to get up after a fall if possible
-
Caregiver training - training family members or helpers on handling the patient safely
Falls can be prevented to a certain extent - from reducing trip hazards, installing safety features in your home and keeping yourself strong!
If you think your loved one will benefit from Geriatric Rehab, please contact us to find out more or to book an appointment.
We provide both in-clinic rehabilitation and home therapy.
Let's look after our seniors by looking out for them!