Active Aging

2 Active Aging Week | OCTOBER 5-11, 2020 Physiotherapy can keep you in the game at any age By Quinn Taylor W ith age comes wisdom and experience, but so too come a variety of physical challenges to overcome. Age-related bone and muscle loss, cardiovascular disease, risk of falls, social isolation, dependency, and mental health issues are all challenges that affect an aging population. ough many therapies exist to address these issues, one form of treatment is consistently shown to have a positive effect on all of the above issues: physical activity. Staying active as you age can chal- lenging and sometimes a little help is needed along the way. is is where physiotherapy (sometimes referred to as "physical therapy") fits in. Physio- therapists are your neighbourhood ex- perts in education and physical treat- ment to support your active lifestyle. Physiotherapists can be your first point of contact when it comes to addressing the aches and pains that might threaten to keep you glued to the couch. When you visit a physio- therapist, you can expect a thorough assessment, including an in-depth history-taking in which we get to know you and your history. Following a thorough physical examination, we will discuss our impression, including the source of your pain and any contributing factors that might be impeding your recovery, ranging from deficits in strength or mobility to the consequences of posture or stress. en, we will work with you to cre- ate a treatment plan that fits your life- style. is may include modifications to your current activity routine, home exercises to improve your strength and flexibility, and hands-on therapies such as joint mobilization or so tissue treatments to reduce your pain and improve your motion. We will discuss lifestyle changes that will support your recovery, including strategies to reduce stress and optimize rest. We emphasize patient-centered care, meaning that no two treatment plans will be alike. Your physiotherapist will work with you to help you understand the unique variables contributing to your specific issues. Our first pri- ority is to educate and empower each person to help manage their own con- dition, with the end goal of removing perceived barriers to movement and improving quality of life. In fact, you don't need to be in pain to see a physiotherapist! Physiotherapists are experts in health-promoting exer- cise. Many people could benefit from working with a physiotherapist to develop and progress their fitness regimen, while keeping pain at bay. Quinn Taylor is a physiotherapist at Pure Physiotherapy, you can find Quinn and many other great physiotherapists in the find a physiotherapist section of our website mbphysio.org A regular walking routine is a simple and effective way to stay healthy at any age. Walking reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes by reducing body fat, blood pressure and blood sugar all while improving aerobic fit- ness. Even small amounts can be beneficial, so take any opportunity to use your feet and jump on the heel-toe express as a way to build your fitness! As a bonus, walking can prevent and treat depression and anxiety, improving mental health outcomes such as happiness and self-esteem. Quinn Taylor Walking for the win

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