15/07/2025
Therapy in geriatric care plays a critical role in maintaining or improving an older adult’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Therapy may be rehabilitative, supportive, or preventive, depending on the individual's health status and goals.
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🧠 Types of Therapy in Geriatric Care
1. Physical Therapy (PT)
Focuses on restoring or improving mobility, balance, strength, and physical function.
Benefits:
Fall prevention
Pain management (e.g., arthritis)
Post-surgery rehabilitation (e.g., hip replacement)
Increased independence
Examples of Interventions:
Balance training
Gait training with assistive devices
Muscle strengthening exercises
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2. Occupational Therapy (OT)
Helps older adults perform daily activities (ADLs) and maintain independence.
Benefits:
Improving dressing, bathing, cooking skills
Adapting the home for safety
Teaching energy conservation for chronic fatigue
Cognitive rehabilitation (e.g., for dementia)
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3. Speech and Language Therapy (SLT)
Addresses communication and swallowing difficulties.
Used for:
Stroke rehabilitation (aphasia)
Parkinson’s disease-related speech decline
Swallowing disorders (dysphagia)
Voice therapy
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4. Psychotherapy / Counseling
Mental health therapy tailored to age-related challenges.
Common uses:
Depression or anxiety
Grief and loss
Adjustment to chronic illness or retirement
Coping with cognitive decline
Types:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Reminiscence therapy (discussing past experiences)
Support groups
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5. Cognitive Therapy / Stimulation
Used especially for those with dementia or mild cognitive impairment.
Approaches include:
Memory exercises
Reality orientation
Puzzle-solving, games, and music therapy
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6. Recreational and Art Therapies
Promote emotional well-being and social engagement.
Examples:
Music therapy
Art therapy
Pet therapy
Gardening and group activities
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Would you like help creating a therapy plan for a specific condition (e.g., stroke recovery, dementia etc)
