Geriatric Rehabilitation

Disability, or limitation in the ability to carry out basic functional daily activities, becomes increasingly common with advancing age.

The changing demographics of our population due to improvements in healthcare services has also increased life expectancy. The increasing numbers in this population, is often associated with an apparent increase in disability related to musculoskeletal disorders, diabetes, and neurologic disorders, affecting mobility-related activities.

There are numerous factors causing an increase in disability in the older adult population, but a few of the more common causes include:

• Stroke
• Reduced recovery from surgical intervention
• Reduced strength and mobility following hospitalization for a medical condition
• Multiple chronic conditions that compound together and affect independence and wellbeing
• Recovery from a fall

Using a patient centred approach, at RHP care is provided by a multidisciplinary team whose expertise includes helping participants improve their strength, mobility, balance and walking. Therapist shall provide falls prevention education and advice; carer training and certain strategies to manage changes associate with aging.

The emphasis in this area of rehabilitation is to maintain and optimize independence in activities of daily living. The more the family is involved and understand the importance of how to facilitate activity the better. The team supports participants to optimize their function, transition back to their home and community environment and provides training for families and carers. The team can also support the process of placement, should the pre-morbid home environment no longer be appropriate.

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