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What’s the Difference Between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy for Seniors?

Breaking Down the Similarities and Differences Between These Two Important Therapies

Knowing where you can find high-quality rehabilitation services in your area is important, especially if you or a loved one has recently experienced a healthcare challenge that required hospitalization such as a stroke, injury, cardiovascular condition, or orthopedic condition. Or perhaps you’re overcoming a recent surgery and need a place to recover between getting discharged from the hospital and going back home. Having on-site medical professionals that can assist you with wound care, medications, and IV therapies are invaluable to seniors who need a little extra time and attention to ensure their recovery is properly handled.

Keeping that in mind, we wanted to take this as an opportunity to break down the difference between two important rehabilitation therapies that are offered on our campus, which are physical therapy and occupational therapy.

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapists typically work with individuals who are recovering from an injury or a surgery that is causing them pain and/or limiting their mobility. Physical therapy is also used for those who are dealing with a disability or medical condition that causes abnormal physical function. Some common conditions and disabilities that can benefit from physical therapy are stroke, Parkinson’s disease, musculoskeletal dysfunction, multiple sclerosis, cardiopulmonary issues, and so forth. A physical therapist is licensed to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients in a wide variety of settings including hospitals, private practices, outpatient offices, skilled nursing, and senior living communities.

Although the types of conditions that physical therapy is used for are wide and varied, the end goal for this type of treatment is fairly consistent. Ultimately, physical therapy is designed to grant a person back their full range of mobility and relieve them of any pain or discomfort that they may be experiencing. Additionally, physical therapy also has the added benefit of helping people regain their balance and reduce dependence on opioids and other pain medications.

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapists work with people of all ages and ability levels who need assistance with activities of daily living (aka ADLs). For example, an occupational therapist may work with children who are developmentally disabled or with seniors who have inhibited motor functions due to cognitive changes. The activities of daily living they may help with are generally simple tasks such as getting dressed, bathing, cooking, and so forth. The end goal of occupational therapy is to get the individual able to perform the tasks in question with as much autonomy as possible so that their quality of life and independence are restored.

Much like physical therapists, occupational therapists work in a wide variety of settings such as hospitals, healthcare facilities, schools, colleges, private practices, outpatient facilities, nursing homes, and senior living communities.

Healthcare Services Are Priority #1 Here at McCrite Plaza

Rehabilitation services such as occupational therapy and physical therapy are just two of the many healthcare services that McCrite Plaza has to offer to our residents. Healthcare is a priority for those that are considering a move because they want to ensure that all their medical needs are going to be met, even if they don’t have any pressing healthcare issues at the moment. McCrite Plaza is proud to offer a full continuum of care to its residents, including rehabilitation services. However, physical therapy and occupational therapy services are also offered to non-residents in our skilled nursing rehabilitation center.

Contact the Team at McCrite Plaza Today For a Tour

When considering your options for retirement communities and active adult living, there are going to be certain aspects that are on your wish list. Care, comfort, and community will likely be right at the top. Having great company along with a fantastic staff to cater to your every need is one of the best perks of retired life. The variety of amenities will likely also be high up on the list as well. After all, independent and active adult communities need to offer their residents plenty to do so they may enjoy their days. Seniors love being engaged and trying out new things.

If you’ve been searching for the phrases “independent living near me” or “senior living community near me” then you’ve come to the right place. Both McCrite Plaza Briarcliff and McCrite Plaza Topeka offer the finest in luxury senior living for those who are looking to spend their retirement with a wealth of activities to do in a welcoming community.

The best way to see what McCrite Plaza has to offer you or your loved one is by setting up a personal tour. Simply go to our contact page and provide a little bit of information. A member of our team will reach out to you to set up your guided tour of McCrite Plaza. You will have an opportunity to meet our team, see our luxury apartments, and tour our beautiful grounds.

Take the first step towards luxury living today!