Rejuvenate Your Mind, Body, and Spirit; Physical Therapy for the Older Adult

Rejuvenate Your Mind, Body, and Spirit; Physical Therapy for the Older Adult

8^th International Conference and Expo on Novel Physiotherapies, Physical Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine
August 03, 2021 Webinar

Gerard Charles

Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore

Scientific Tracks Abstracts : Biol Med Case Rep

Abstract:

Sarcopenia, multi-morbidities, functional decline and social isolation are some of the reasons why the older adult lives a sedentary lifestyle. The COVID-19 pandemic have made it worst for these older adults, with lockdown measures closing the local gyms and outdoor exercises being controlled meant that they had to stay at home. For the technologically saavy adult, the use of fitness applications and online videos can serve as a guide to perform exercises at home. However, for those without access to the internet or media, selfdetermination and motivation to perform exercises may diminish with time. This presentation will focus on the various types of exercises that are not only safe, but convenient for the older adult. Physical therapy should not only focus on physical aspect of exercise, but the physicality of the indvidual. As such, the mind and spirit needs to be frequently stimulated as well. Puzzles or the use of augmented and virtual reality games with other participants can not only help sharpen the mind, but increase social capital amongst the older adult. The building of social capital in old age acts as a pathway to decrease social isolation amongt older adults. By engaging with others, it creates a bond and an extended network, especially for the older adults who are single and reside alone. Meditation, yoga and mindfulness exercises are some ways that will be explored in this presentation to elevate the spirits of the older adult.

Biography:

Gerard Charles is currently pursuing his PhD in Gerontology at the age of 30 years old from Singapore University of Social Sciences. He is a registered nurse at Singapore General Hospital’s Department of Emergency Medicine. He has published 3 papers in reputed journals. His research interests are in the field of gerontology, healthcare, and nursing.

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