Aquatic therapy is a catch-all term for any form of treatment or exercise performed within the water for a therapeutic benefit. The exercises can be done either whilst partially submerged, fully submerged, or even just floating on the surface of the water. These therapeutic benefits can be either physical or mental and can be used to deal with a variety of different mental and physical difficulties. Typically, treatment is prescribed and carried out with the support of a specialist, but almost anyone can perform practices associated with aquatic therapy by themselves. In this article we cover some of the benefits of aquatic therapy for seniors, just be sure to consult with a trusted physician before embarking on any new exercise by yourself, and make sure to abide by the safety regulations and guidelines of your swimming pool.
Why is Aquatic Therapy Useful?
For people recovering from physical injuries, aquatic therapy can be a fantastic way of promoting the repair and recovery of damaged muscles and nerves. It is for this reason. When you are submerged in water, the weight of your body is supported not just by your body but also by the water as well. This makes it easier on your joints and can allow you to experience a full range of motion during exercises with minimal pain.
This basically means that you can exercise more muscles at a lower risk of injury and hurt. Furthermore, depending on the exercise you are doing, the act of doing it within the water may increase the difficulty (due to the resistance of the water) without necessarily compromising on your physical safety. For instance, aqua jogging (jogging or walking whilst partially submerged within the water) is a popular exercise for individuals with arthritis of the knees.
Reduces Anxiety
Aquatic therapy can also be useful for individuals who are suffering from mental illnesses such as anxiety. Activities like aqua yoga, for instance, are associated with a reduction of symptoms related to anxiety, due to the relaxing feeling of exercising within the confines of water. The water can also make it easier to carry out the exercises associated with yoga.
Enhances Cardiovascular Health
While aquatic therapy is gentler than running, it still makes you work out vigorously and raises your heart rate to burn fat and help you stay in good shape. As a result of aquatic therapy, the lungs and heart use oxygen more efficiently, reducing the risk of heart attacks and other heart-related diseases.
Boost Strength & Balance
A number of conditions can increase the risk of falls in older adults, which can lead to catastrophic consequences. It has been reported that twenty percent of falls result in an older adult’s injury, like a broken bone or head injury. Swiftly moving through water provides natural resistance that can help build muscle endurance and strength, reducing the likelihood of tripping or falling.
Why Choose Discovery Commons Cypress Point?
At Discovery Commons Cypress Point, we believe strongly in making sure our residents have access to the medical support and therapy that they need. At our Senior Assisted Living Community, we have on-site medical professionals and therapists for our residents to cater to the needs of our residents, and our in-house team is trained in how to respond in the event of a medical emergency.
