Chiropractic Care: Older Adults

Course overview

Just as chiropractic care is appropriate for adults, children, and even newborn infants, older adults can also benefit from some of the outcomes of chiropractic care. As a person ages, he or she often encounters more health problems and may have reduced energy to carry out routine activities. Aging impacts all areas of the body, including the musculoskeletal system. Reductions in coordination, balance and ranges of motion may result in a sedentary lifestyle. Additionally, older adults may be more likely to develop fatigue with activity, and may experience pain as a result of chronic illnesses that affect the musculoskeletal system, such as osteoporosis or arthritis. By focusing on the unique changes that occur with aging, a chiropractor may utilize holistic approaches to improve overall physical functioning, balance and coordination. The physical strength and coordination of older adults can be improved with recommended treatment. The interventions and current research supporting chiropractic care in older adults is discussed in the following sections. Health clinicians need to understand chiropractic guidelines and methods to treat older adults, especially given the increasing numbers of those seeking chiropractic care.