Physical therapy is always a staple for seniors requiring mobility care and assistance. If you’re a family caregiver, you’ve probably scoured for a reliable physical therapist to work with. But more than care, safety is a crucial factor in choosing the best type of care for your senior parent.

It’s no secret that the home can be a hazard for older people. How it’s designed and how clutter is scattered on the floor can increase the risk of accidents. Slips and falls are likely when physical therapists work in this environment.

Explore the critical aspects of physical therapy safety, the challenges therapists face, and practical strategies to promote a safe environment for therapy sessions.

Challenges Faced by Physical Therapists

Caregivers have to face challenges related to their job. Physical therapists also have to confront unique issues when doing their practice.

1. Preventing falls

One of the biggest challenges is eliminating falls during sessions. They’re prevalent in older people with balance issues. Accidents sometimes happen when therapists misjudge a person’s ability. Perhaps, they’ve thought your loved one’s balance ability is 7 out of 10. However, in reality, it’s only 4 out of 10. That’s why proper and accurate assessment is critical. Finding a balance between pushing for progress and ensuring safety is also critical.

2. Physical strain

Like how care has a two-way impact, therapists also experience strain. They get physical, emotional, and mental pressures that can sometimes lead to burnout. On top of that, they’re also susceptible to musculoskeletal injuries if:

• They lift seniors who have more weight than them
• They assist them with exercise using their body
• They maneuver the equipment using improper techniques

Physical therapy is a tough job that requires more than skill. Therapists must also have a keen awareness of body mechanics and the right tools to get the job done safely.

3. Infection risks

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 31 hospital patients is affected by at least one healthcare-associated infection. This is why keeping everything germ-free is a must in healthcare settings. It applies to physical therapy clinics, too.

Sometimes, doctors will recommend therapy in hospitals before moving home or to an extended care facility. Therapists must sanitize their equipment. Good hand hygiene practice is crucial. Wearing protective gear can help stop the spread of infections.

Practicing Physical Therapy Safely

So, how exactly do therapists ensure safety during sessions? They follow strict guidelines set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The OSHA regulates anything related to workplace issues.

For example, the use of proper assistive devices is a must to avoid lifting hazards. Moreover, the aisle must be clear of any obstructions during sessions. Therapists must use personal protective equipment. They must maintain impeccable cleanliness in the clinic environment. If they use therapy balls and treatment tables, they must sanitize those before and after use. The goal is to create an environment where seniors feel safe while receiving care.

Preventing Injuries in Physical Therapy

Typically, therapists work with patients living with limited mobility. However, they also assist those recovering from surgeries. These patients are sometimes fully dependent on their caregivers. Therefore, the risk of injuries to therapists is high. They protect themselves with these strategies:

1. Assistive Devices

They typically use assistive devices such as gait belts, canes, walkers, and crutches. Their purpose is to provide support and stability during exercises and transfers. These tools help patients maintain balance. They reduce the risk of falls in people recovering from orthopedic procedures.

2. Safe Patient Handling Techniques

Physical therapists undergo extensive education in safe patient-handling techniques. This training emphasizes proper body mechanics. They also learn about posture and leverage to minimize strain. Strategies such as proper lifting and transferring methods protect patients from potential harm. In addition, it shields therapists from musculoskeletal injuries.

3. Specialized Equipment

Therapists may use specialized equipment such as mechanical lifts or hoists. They can help those who have severe mobility limitations. These devices allow therapists to lift patients safely. They can do so without placing undue stress on either party. Therapists can promote safety transfers during movements that would otherwise be challenging.

4. Personalized Exercise Programs

No person is the same. This is why each patient receives a customized exercise program. The plan is tailored to their specific needs, preferences, and capabilities. Therapists carefully assess your loved one’s physical condition. They also consider their medical history and rehabilitation goals.

Then they use data to create exercises that promote strength, flexibility, and mobility. Regular reassessments are crucial. If your loved one’s care needs, their treatment plan will reflect those changes.

5. Education and Empowerment

Therapists provide education on safe movement techniques and precautions. They teach proper body mechanics for sitting, standing, and lifting objects. This knowledge empowers your loved one to participate in their recovery process. At the same time, it minimizes the risk of accidental injury.

Therapists promote physical therapy safety in many ways. One is through combining advanced mobility techniques. Two is with the use of specialized equipment. Three is through a one-on-one focused treatment. They optimize rehabilitation outcomes as a result.

Ensuring a Safe Environment for Physical Therapy Practice

Proper maintenance is essential for therapists who operate in private clinics. The staff must clean and sanitize the equipment. They’re in charge of maintaining the general cleanliness of the area. Clinics must have an atmosphere that can support healing. What do they need to nurture such an environment?

A good ventilation system is one. It ensures air is well-circulated throughout the area. It also helps mitigate the spread of airborne pathogens. The staff must do routine equipment checks. They must ensure therapy mats and electrical devices are in the best condition. Doing so consequently minimizes the risk of accidents or malfunctions during therapy sessions.

Clear signage throughout the clinic reinforces safety protocols. It promotes collaboration for maintaining a safe environment.

Adapting to New Challenges and Risks

The pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges for healthcare professionals worldwide, including physical therapists. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, therapists faced significant disruptions. Many reported the following:

• A decrease in patient visits
• Layoffs
• A shift toward remote care solutions

This transition to virtual care delivery mitigated the risk of virus transmission.

Telehealth supported ongoing care

During the pandemic, telehealth emerged as a crucial tool. It allowed therapists to deliver care remotely using technology. Care delivered from the screens made physical therapy safer during a difficult time.

Thanks to this shift, seniors who couldn’t attend in-person sessions due to lockdowns received ongoing sessions. They were able to receive exercise walkthroughs and care advice. As a result, treatments that were expected to be disrupted continued. People recovered and improved their well-being without leaving their homes.

Telehealth was instrumental in bridging the gaps in the lack of access to care. Until now, more and more people are embracing it for its convenience and safety. Adapting virtual care platforms has allowed continuity of care during uncertain times.

For those who needed in-person therapy, clinics stepped up their physical therapy safety. They implemented the mandatory use of masks and meticulous sanitization routines. On top of that, they also rearranged waiting areas for social distancing. Therapists went above and beyond to create a safe environment for staff and seniors. These measures ensured therapy sessions could carry on smoothly and safely.

Through it all, physical therapists showed incredible resilience. They stayed on top of the latest guidelines, adapted their practices quickly, and prioritized patient care above all else. The pandemic was a tough test, however, these professionals proved their commitment to innovation and patient well-being every step of the way.

Prioritize Physical Therapy Safety

Even if the throes of the pandemic have subsided, the world is not completely rid of health risks. New strains of viruses continue to emerge. Therefore, prioritizing physical therapy safety must continue.

By understanding the challenges therapists face, everyone can create a supportive environment where therapy is both effective and safe for everyone involved.

As a family caregiver, you’re responsible for locating a safe environment for healing. Turn to Amy’s Home Senior Care if you need help.

We have homes with 24-hour caregivers, always on standby to assist your senior mom or dad. They can support you in many ways. They can do light housekeeping tasks and accompany your loved one in their morning exercise. We can also arrange for a therapist to work with them in restoring their physical functions. Our homes are built and designed with your senior loved one in mind. Send us a message or schedule a tour to learn more about how we can help your family.