Alzheimer’s Disease Modesto, CA

Alzheimer’s Disease

Tina MacDonald

I was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2012 and with this disease comes many physical and mental challenges. Just recently I...

Alzheimer’s Doesn’t Only Affect Your Memory.

When you hear that someone has developed Alzheimer’s with old age, you may assume this means that only  their memory has been negatively affected. Contrary to popular belief, Alzheimer’s is not a disease that only affects an individual’s memory. It also has unfortunate physical side effects, including issues with incontinence and mobility.

If you or a loved one is struggling with the physical effects of Alzheimer’s, contact practice name’s physical therapy clinic in Modesto to learn more about how our physical therapy rehabilitation services can provide guidance and relief.

Physical Effects of Alzheimer’s

If you have a loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s , it is very important to know what to expect with their physical abilities. Three main physical obstacles that often arise with Alzheimer’s patients as their condition declines are as follows:

  • Decreased levels of mobility. Alzheimer’s targets brain cells associated with muscle awareness and movement. People with this condition may begin to lose their strength and balance. Alzheimer’s also affects levels of cognitive self-awareness, which can cause a person to forget they need an assistive walking device such as a walker or cane. This could result in a serious fall or injury.
  • Incontinence. Alzheimer’s impairs the muscles that control bladder function, which can cause incontinence will occur more frequently. 
  • Apraxia. This disability begins with difficulty handling daily activities such as getting dressed, washing yourself, or brushing your teeth. As the individual’s condition declines, they may have trouble chewing and swallowing food

Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may also develop other age-related degenerative conditions such as arthritis. It’s important to seek help early in diagnosis to make sure you or your loved one is taking necessary precautions to preserve their wellbeing.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is not a disease that can 100% be prevented, however, physical therapy can certainly help slow a person’s mental and physical decline as they age.

The physical therapists here at Biosport Physical Therapy in Modesto are movement specialists who know how to help strengthen a person’s body in safe and effective ways. 

Having regular exercise that improves balance, strength, and coordination may delay a decline in physical abilities in people who have Alzheimer’s disease.

The physical therapists at Biosport Physical Therapy are skilled at designing custom exercise programs for people with Alzheimer’s disease. They can play a key role in preventing the condition from worsening quickly, and they can also provide assistance with improving brain function and memory.

In the earlier phases of this disease, a physical therapist can help a person to stay mobile so they can continue to participate at home, their job, or in their community. As the disease progresses, a physical therapist can help someone be able to maintain their normal routine for as long as possible.

Contact Biosport Physical Therapy for an evaluation 

Physical therapy for Alzheimer’s can help improve an individual’s quality of life and might even delay the need for assisted living.

Having a physical therapist involved with  decreases stress on caregivers or family members. A Modesto physical therapist can make suggestions to a patient’s loved ones on ways to help make their home more safe and how to manage a patient’s needs.  Contact us today to learn more about our physical therapy services; we’ll set up a consultation for you or your loved one as soon as possible.