Older Person’s Health

Healthy ageing is vital and is one of the most important predictor of life satisfaction in old age. Our physiotherapists can help you overcome pain, weakness and assist in building your strength, fitness and independence with specific exercise programmes. In conjunction with your doctor, we can assist you in managing any of the following…
Osteoporosis, high cholesterol, osteoarthritis, obesity, diabetes, COPD, high blood pressure, falls.

What is Arthritis?

There are many different types of arthritis with the most common being osteoarthritis. It is the degeneration of the articular cartilage (shock absorber) within your joints. It can be the result of previous trauma, infection of the joint or “wear and tear” due to age. As well as pain and swelling it is common in osteoarthritis for secondary effects to occur such as loss of strength, flexibility and decreased fitness. This can have a big impact on your quality of life.

Research shows that with Physiotherapy we can reduce pain, increase mobility and delay the need for surgery in people with osteoarthritis. Merivale Physiotherapy will work with you to develop an individualised goal focussed plan. We will need to work on decreasing the load going through the joint by increasing your fitness and strengthening the muscles that support the joint. We will liaise with your General Practitioner and update them on your progress.

How do we identify if you are at risk of falling?

There are several risk factors associated with an increased risk of falling and age is just one of them. If you have fallen in the past then you are also at an increased risk of falling again unless this has already been addressed. Another key risk factor for falling is reduced strength and balance. The social impact of falls can also be significant. It may decrease your confidence to go out and participate in social outings, leading to less independence.

If you are over 65 years and have fallen in the last year, would you fail the following tests?
1. Can you sit to stand without using your arms 5 times in less 12 seconds?
2. Can you alternately place your entire foot onto a step 8 times in less than 10 seconds without support?

If the answer is yes, then book an appointment with us today. 03 355 9775

There is strong evidence for older people living in the community that single interventions like exercise programmes can have a significant impact on reducing falls. At the Merivale Physiotherapy Clinic, we are experienced in retraining strength and balance. As well as treating any current injuries you have from falling, we can help prevent you falling again through a personalised exercise programme. We can also refer for a community based assessment if you need any further care or better still a community based exercise programme when you no longer require individual physiotherapy.

Merivale Physiotherapy also work within local retirement villages where we provide individualised home based assessments and treatments as required.