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How can you keep up a fitness program after the PT has finished. Is there a personal trainer for the elderly that would pick up where medicare leaves off. Is there a certification for such a thing?
Carol Bradley Bursack, Oct 25, 2011
Over the span of two decades author, columnist and speaker Carol Bradley Bursack cared for a neighbor and six elderly family members. Because of this experience, Bradley Bursack created a portable support group, the book "Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories."
I just wrote a newspaper column answering a similar question, so you aren't alone with your problem. If insurance won't pay for more PT - you can try an appeal to see if they will pay for more - try alternative doctors or therapists. Acupuncture helps some people, massage and other therapies can help. Be sure to make sure the practitioner is properly licensed and don't fall for anyone who promises miracles. However, alternative therapies such as those mentioned, as well as yoga stretches (some can be done in a wheel chair) can help many people. Please look into these. Good luck,Carol
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karenmeek2002
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Oct 26, 2011
Thanks Carol, unfortunately at 96 my mother is not very motivated to move at all. The caregivers I have are content to do personal care and housework but exercise is not on the table. When I work with her she just says no. I have tried all of your suggestions you are correct but it is the motivation that is lacking. Medicare guidelines are very strict about maintenance health care. They don't allow it period. I would love to have a motivated exercise therapy person like a personal trainer for the elderly come to the house 2 or 3 times / week just to keep her moving. So far it doesn't exist in my world. As a younger women she used to do sit and be fit which is great but now it moves too fast for her to follow. Thanks for your suggestions.
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Capability
You could always hire a caregiver through an agency and be specific that you are looking for someone to help maintain your exercise routine. Companies, such as ours, look for very specific skills when hiring caregivers- and would find someone with this exact experience. The caregiver could go to a PT appointment with you to learn the proper exercises, and then come to your home at your convenience to assist. Much less expensive than continuing with PT! Good luck!
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