Has a sudden injury, illness, or chronic condition limited your level of independence? If an unexpected lifestyle change has left you struggling to care for yourself, know that you are not alone.
According to a 2016 National Health Interview Survey, 6.4% of Americans above the age of 65 needed help with personal care. For adults 85 or older, that number increased to 20.7%.
Fortunately, we can help. Our skilled occupational therapists can help you improve your ability to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). As movement experts, we will work on your mobility using exercise therapy, strength training, and pain reduction techniques.
What is an ADL?
Activities of Daily Living or ADLs is a healthcare term that refers to the basic actions individuals must take each day to care for themselves
The six activities that comprise basic ADLs (sometimes called BADLs) are:
- Walking
- Dressing/Grooming, or appropriately managing your appearance
- Eating
- Toileting, or “getting to and from the toilet [and] using it appropriately”
- Bathing
- Transferring, or being able to move positions (ex. Moving from a bed to your chair)
More advanced ADLs include managing your finances, meal preparation, home maintenance (cleaning), managing communication, and managing medications. Together, your ability to complete these key life tasks determines your capacity for independent living.
Occupational Therapy and ADLs
No one wants to struggle to complete essential daily tasks. At Optimal Home Rehab, we understand how limiting it can feel to grapple with a newfound loss of independence.
That’s why our greater Philadelphia area, PA therapists are prepared to help. Whether you are recovering from an injury or surgical operation, facing an illness, or simply getting older, our skilled therapists will work with you to increase your independence level.
Following your initial appointment, our therapists will create a specialized treatment plan that targets your individual needs. You may be prescribed exercise therapy to improve your strength and joint mobility. You may also undergo balance and gait training to increase your ability to perform ADLs.
Your treatment plan may also include pain-relieving modalities like heat/cold or manual therapies.
Contact our in-home occupational therapy today!
A greater degree of independence is possible with occupational therapy, and you deserve to experience it. Contact Optimal Home Rehab in the greater Philadelphia area, PA to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed professionals today.