Physical therapy is designed to improve the strength, mobility, and functional abilities of patients when medical problems or health-related issues create limitations to daily life activities. In fact, a recent study found that weekly PT sessions can lower the risk of rehospitalization among seniors by over 80 percent.
Patients who are hospitalized may see a physical therapist who works in the hospital. In other cases, their physician may recommend continuing visits at an outpatient physical therapy clinic.
Sometimes, however, a patient’s mobility is so limited that it is difficult – or even impossible – to leave home to attend treatments. When this is an issue, these individuals may still enjoy the benefits of PT in their homes with an at-home physical therapist.
Here are five of the top benefits of in-home physical therapy services.
In-Home Physical Therapy Benefits:
Convenience & Accessibility
For patients with limited mobility, getting to and from physical therapy treatments can be challenging. In-home physical therapy services offer necessary care directly to the patient, wherever they call home. Many homebound patients find it comforting to receive treatment in a familiar place. In-home physical therapy for seniors can be helpful if the patient is new to therapy, as it allows them to focus on their care with few distractions so there can be an increased focus on recovery.
One-On-One Care
Therapists working in an outpatient clinic setting will often oversee the care of more than one patient at a time. With in-home physical therapy services, the patient has the undivided attention of their therapist. This translates to a higher quality of care and better outcomes overall.
Simplified Training
PT clinics are filled with an assortment of machines, gadgets, and exercise equipment. Although these instruments serve a purpose, patients typically do have access to similar items at home. With in-home physical therapy services, the therapist can help the patient utilize everyday items that are readily available. This makes it easier for the patient to continue strengthening exercises between PT visits and even long after they graduate from physical therapy.
Prevent Falls & Other Injuries
Just like patients, no two homes are exactly alike. That is why there is no better place to truly evaluate a patient’s mobility than in their own home. Some houses have small awkward rooms, while others have winding staircases or even unusual furniture. The therapist is trained to spot fall risks and other hazards within the home. By identifying and eliminating these dangers, they can help the patient avoid additional injury. Learn more about home safety measures for the elderly, so they can be safe without hazards.
Practical & Direct Application
By delivering treatment where the patient lives and performs day-to-day tasks, the physical therapist can provide instruction that is clear, meaningful, and helpful. Rather than suggesting the patient move in a certain way to carry out the trash or get out of bed, the therapist can model the proper movement for the patient. This makes the exercise immediately more relatable for the patient and increases the likelihood that they will remember it.
Intrepid USA’s highly skilled physical therapists help individuals restore maximum movement and functional ability to improve their quality of life and live more independently. To learn more about Intrepid USA’s in-home physical therapy services and other home-based medical care, contact us today.
