A progressive disease characterized by gradually worsening dementia symptoms, Alzheimer’s disease affects an estimated 5.8 million Americans aged 65 and older. The condition is thought to be caused by abnormal buildup of proteins in and around the brain cells, which leads to progressive deterioration. Some of its common symptoms include:

  • Loss of memory
  • Confusion with space or time
  • Difficulty understanding spatial relationships and visual images
  • Trouble with speech or writing
  • Decreased or poor judgement

How Physical Therapy Can Help

While there’s no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are certain treatments that can potentially help slow down the symptoms of the condition – with physical therapy being an effective one. Exercising regularly throughout the various stages of Alzheimer’s is known to improve:

  • Muscle strength
  • Balance
  • Flexibility
  • Endurance
  • Blood flow to the brain

Research and clinical studies have also revealed that physical therapy can slow down Alzheimer’s symptoms in the following ways:

Improves Mood and Decreases Aggression

Depression and aggression are two traits that are common in Alzheimer’s patients. This is an area where physical therapy can be quite beneficial. A professional physical therapist can assist the patient with certain exercises and active movements that trigger the release of endorphins – a hormone that soothes the brain.

A clinical study discovered that Alzheimer’s patients who had regular physical therapy over a 2-4 month period had fewer behavior-related hospitalizations.

Enhances Strength and Mobility

Alzheimer’s patients often struggle with balance, which puts them at a higher risk for falls. Physical therapy can help in maintain muscle and bone strength as coordination declines. Professional physical therapists can work with patients to build muscle memory which will help prevent falls. When you have good muscle memory, your muscles will continue to automatically respond to uneven, unstable surfaces even if they haven’t been registered by the brain.

Slows Down Memory Loss

Perhaps the most frustrating symptom of Alzheimer’s – for both the patient and their loved ones – is memory loss. This is another area where physical therapy can help as it involves activities and exercises that improve blood flow to the brain.

A clinical study revealed that regular exercise training increased the size of the hippocampus – the part of the brain that’s responsible for memory.

 

If you have a loved one in Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista,  San Marcos or Escondido who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, get in touch with Mobile Physical Therapists. We provide physical therapy sessions at home for senior patients with Alzheimer’s and a range of other health conditions. Call us today to begin therapy! (760) 536-2377