Aging and Rehabilitation
Article submitted by Cheryl Debes & Jane Amata of The ALDEN Network. If you would like more information about ALDEN's more than 30 rehabilitation centers in Chicago, suburban areas, Rockford and southern Wisconsin, call 800-351-3130 or visit www.thealdennetwork.com.
Contrary to popular belief, the loss of physical and functional ability is not necessarily age specific. It is related more to low levels of fitness and activity. The "slippery slope of aging" begins at age 30. People begin losing an average of 1% of muscle strength and 3% of power (the speed of movement) each year after they turn 30. The rate of decline is greater in inactive or overweight individuals. Compound this "aging" factor with illness, injury or surgery and the effects increase exponentially.
Today's rehabilitation and skilled nursing centers focus on reversing the effects of such "aging." Good therapy programs center on restoring mobility and function in rehabilitation patients, while developing reserve strength. This allows patients to return to their homes and communities and to experience the best possible quality of life.
Most patients want to finish their therapy and return home at the earliest possible moment. While this is understandable, it is not necessarily a safe or prudent one. Patients and their families should consider some pertinent facts before making a decision about how long to continue therapy at a rehabilitation and skilled nursing center.
Consider the following minimum physical requirements for being independent in the community. These include the ability to:
* Walk 1,000 feet per errand for 2-3 errands per trip;
* Carry packages averaging 6-7 pounds while walking;
* Walk and look in all directions, and safely negotiate stairs, curbs and slopes;
* Maintain balance while making frequent postural changes such as reaching, turning and moving backwards;
* Walk at least 160 feet per minute, and rise from a chair with minimal effort and without using your arms.
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ALDEN - Article for Senior Resource Guide
2006 Edition