Productive Aging
Can be achieved by remaining active, maintaining high cognitive and physical function. Don't we all wish that for ourselves and our aging parents?Through my experience as an occupational therapist working with older adults in rehabilitation facilities and home care, I have become aware of the importance of "productive aging". Being a daughter of an aging father has further emphasized this idea.
Participation in daily activities and social interaction is closely related to successful aging.
Working out in the gym, swimming, playing Bridge with friends, looking for volunteer opportunities, all those daily routines can influence our well being.
The current recommendation for older adults by cdc.gov is to complete moderate physical activity of at least 150 minutes a week. Moderate activity can be brisk walking at the pace of three miles per hour around the neighborhood or riding a bike. In addition it's also recommended to perform muscle strengthening exercises 2 days a week.
Creating a weekly chart can help keep track of the physical activity and adjust the exercise routine as needed.
Fall Prevention
On the other hand, as an occupational therapist I meet older adults in crisis. People after falls, surgeries, fractures, joint replacements and more.
As people age, part of the normal age related changes include; loss of bone density, decreased balance, and changes in vision and hearing. With increase in age there is also increase in disease occurrence such as; heart and lung disorders, dementia, diabetes and Parkinson. To support productive and successful aging, adjustments should be taken into consideration.
One out of every three adults age 65 years or older fall each year! Part of fall prevention is good and safe home environment.
Home Modification
As a therapist, I assess safety at home and make recommendations for home modifications. When I first enter a home, I always remember that home is more than a physical structure. At home we cook, rest, bath and store personal items.
During the assessment I observe the physical aspect around me, but I also carefully listen to the patient and family to learn better about the emotional aspect. It's important to understand what people like or dislike, need and wish in regards to their home.
In order to improve independence at home, a good fit between personal abilities and home environment is desired.
Minda Hayat OTR/L
minda.therapy@gmail.com
