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How PT, OT, & ST Help in Assisted Living

Did you know that assisted living (AL) facilities are not just places for support, but are hubs of proactive, holistic care designed to enhance residents’ quality of life? It’s true! Among the most impactful services offered at AL residences are physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and speech therapy (ST). These rehabilitation therapies play a crucial role in helping residents age well. So, in recognition of National Assisted Living Week as well as National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, let’s look at how PT, OT, and ST contribute to comprehensive care in assisted living facilities.

Rehabilitation can help assisted living residents by enhancing their physical capabilities, preventing injuries, and boosting overall well-being. Research has shown that individuals who receive PT while in assisted living improve mobility by over 15% — even those who are very frail. OT can ease the transition into assisted living by ensuring that people can still participate in a meaningful way, despite changes to environment, social supports, or physical abilities. Speech therapy can address common quality of life concerns centered on communication and eating. PT, OT, and ST experts can collaborate and tailor treatments to the unique needs of each resident.

So, how do PT, OT, and ST positively impact those in assisted living? Here are four examples:

1. Fall prevention (PT)

More than 14 million older adults fall each year in the U.S.; falls are a leading cause of injury and injury deaths among seniors. Fall prevention is a critical focus wherever seniors live. Physical therapists can help residents with balance training and strength-building activities to reduce the risk of falls.

2. Activities of daily living (ADL) training (OT)

ADLs are personal care tasks that people typically do for themselves, like bathing, dressing, eating, and moving. Age can limit both physical and cognitive functioning, so these day-to-day activities can become harder to do. Occupational therapists can help people learn new techniques and how to use assistive devices that make these activities easier and safer.

3. Pain management (PT)

At least one in five people suffer from chronic pain, and more than 53 million Americans have arthritis. Physical therapists can provide targeted interventions, such as manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises, to help alleviate pain and improve joint mobility.

4. Communication and swallowing support (ST)

Speech therapists can help individuals manage communication difficulties as well as swallowing issues through mouth and throat exercises, breathing control, dietary advice, and technology suggestions. Nearly 1 in 3 elderly adults have trouble swallowing.

As we celebrate National Assisted Living and National Rehabilitation Awareness Weeks, it’s important to recognize the vital role that PT, OT, and ST play in the lives of people in assisted living facilities. These therapies ensure residents receive the care they need to age well, maintain their independence, and enjoy a higher quality of life. At CPT, we partner with assisted living facilities to help individuals achieve their maximum functioning wherever they call home.