Below you will find a chart that explains the differences/benefits of exercises offered in Assisted Living and/or Nursing Homes vs. Tandem Strength & Balance practices.
Sitting Class
Standing Class
TandemSB
|
| Positives | Disadvantages |
| Sitting | Everyone can do- less limits of diagnosis | Main emphasis is on arms- use of weights on arms is typical |
| Easy to do in small group setting | Limited leg exercises. Easy to complete in sitting position. Leg weights are rarely used, therefore more range of motion than strengthening | |
| Strength benefits if weights used on legs | Need to be over 10lbs. to get functional improvements with legs | |
| More strength gains with 5 second holds applied versus just motion | Movement of legs is less due to position allowed while seated | |
|
| People with arthritis may experience pain due to stress placed on joints in seated position | |
| No individualized assistance if in a group | ||
| Standing | Can be done in group setting | Participants need to be able to stand independently to participate |
| Increased confidence in movement | More range of motion vs. balance because of typical requirement to hold onto the chair with exercises | |
|
| To work on balance, individual need to progress to no-hand support to improve balance. Progression to holding position without hand support challenges the balance more! | |
| Not individualized if in group | ||
| Tandem Strength & Balance | Everyone can do regardless of age or diagnosis | If exercises are done lying down, typically weights are not used, and the client is not able to adapt or adjust as needed without seeing a PT again. |
| Can be completed in recliner, on couch, bed or floor |
| |
| Full-body – legs, arms, & core | ||
| Changes in mobility and balance occur once 4lbs. achieved with legs | ||
| 1:1 with physical therapist | ||
| Customizable/individualized | ||
| Adaptable session to session |