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Geriatric
Physiotherapy

Physiotherapist-assisting-an-elderly-man-with-arm-exercises-using-a-dumbbell-in-a-clinical

Physiotherapy for Older Adults & Aging Well

Whether you're staying active or aging gracefully, tailored physiotherapy supports balance, mobility, strength, and independence.

Whether you're managing a chronic condition, recovering from a fall, or simply looking to maintain your independence, my personalized treatments are designed to support your unique goals. With a focus on safety, confidence, and long-term well-being, I help older adults stay mobile, strong, and engaged in daily life.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Older Adults

From faster recovery to injury prevention and peak performance — discover how personalized treatment can support your active lifestyle.

  • Better balance and coordination

  • Improved quality of life and independence

  • Relief from pain and chronic symptoms

  • Strength and mobility enhancement

  • Better body tolerance for family activity

  • What can I expect during my first in-home session for neck or back discomfort?
    We’ll begin with a thorough history and physical assessment. Based on our findings we will introduce gentle, guided movements to support your comfort and range of motion.
  • Can physiotherapy help if I sit at a desk all day?
    Yes! Tailored sessions can reduce muscle tightness, improve posture, and promote flexibility.
  • What kinds of techniques are used?
    Techniques may include soft-tissue work, mobility exercises, postural training, functional stretching, IMS/ dry needling, MPS, or if needed concussion rehab exercises.
  • Will I need to change into specific clothing?
    Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is recommended so you can move freely during sessions.
  • How long is a typical session?
    Most sessions last 45–60 minutes depending on your goals and how your body responds. We leave a little more time for our initial assessment, 60-75min, to make sure all your questions are addressed.
  • Can this help with neck-related headaches?
    Yes, releasing tension in the neck and upper back often helps reduce headache frequency and intensity.
  • Will I receive stretches or exercises to do between visits?
    Yes, simple and manageable home exercise programs are provided to support long-term improvement.
  • How soon should I notice improvement?
    Some clients feel better within 1–2 sessions, while others notice gradual changes over a few weeks as the body heals.
  • Do you bring equipment?
    All necessary tools (bands, mats, etc.) are brought to you—no need to prepare anything.
  • Is this service covered by insurance?
    Ashleigh is a registered physiotherapist, and many insurance plans cover in-home physiotherapy. It is always best to check with your insurance provider to avoid any surprises.
  • Are the exercises hard to do?
    Exercises are simple, accessible, and designed to be done at home with minimal equipment and discomfort.
  • Do I need to stop my regular activities?
    Not necessarily. We’ll help you adapt them while building strength and comfort gradually.
  • What if my discomfort is on both sides?
    Sessions are fully customized and can address bilateral symptoms in a safe, balanced way.
  • Is this good for people who work with their hands?
    Definitely! We help clients in manual roles regain ease and prevent further discomfort.
  • Is there a focus on strength?
    Yes—light resistance and movement retraining can help restore confidence and arm strength.
  • How long does it take to feel progress?
    Clients often feel some relief in the first few sessions with gradual improvements ongoing.
  • Will you show me how to move properly at home or work?
    Absolutely! Ergonomic education and safe movement practices are part of our care.
  • Do you work with conditions like overuse or general fatigue?
    Yes, we design sessions to support function and reduce discomfort from overuse or inactivity.
  • Can this help with mobility after a period of rest?
    Yes. Gentle, personalized sessions help restore range of motion, prevent stiffness, and improve strength.
  • What are common reasons people book this service?
    Clients often seek care for discomfort during lifting, reaching, or repetitive use of the arms.
  • Can I do this if I’ve never done physio before?
    Yes—our sessions are beginner-friendly, gentle, and fully customized.
  • Will it improve walking confidence?
    Absolutely. Our sessions often support gait, posture, and balance for confident and safe movement.
  • Is equipment provided?
    Yes, everything you need is brought to your appointment.
  • Will it include massage?
    Soft tissue techniques may be used based on your comfort and mobility goals.
  • Can this reduce joint stiffness in the morning?
    Many clients experience improved mobility with regular movement-based care.
  • Is this good for post-replacement surgery?
    Absolutely! Once you are cleared by your doctor for exercise, we support recovery through safe, guided sessions.
  • What if I have arthritis?
    We adapt our approach to reduce strain and improve your ease of movement.
  • Can this help me feel safer going up stairs?
    Yes. We often focus on stair safety, balance, and knee/hip control.
  • What types of movements are used?
    Movements include balance work, joint mobility, light strength training, and posture guidance.
  • Can I still benefit if I’ve had discomfort for years?
    Yes. We often help clients improve movement and manage symptoms, even long-term or chronic symptoms.
  • Is this covered by insurance?
    Most private insurance providers cover in-home physiotherapy under registered physio services.
  • Do you use any devices?
    We may use gentle tools or light stimulation options if appropriate and preferred.
  • Can this improve balance or coordination?
    Yes. Improved nerve signalling and movement awareness can enhance those areas.
  • Will I feel sore afterward?
    Some light fatigue or soreness is normal but fades quickly. We always check in.
  • What are common areas you focus on?
    Neck, back, arms, and legs where nerve sensitivity or restricted motion is present.
  • Is it safe for people with past surgeries?
    Yes. We work cautiously around surgical sites and adapt everything to your history.
  • Can this be done if I have an old nerve injury?
    Yes. We often help clients who are navigating older injuries with tailored home-based care.
  • What does a typical session involve?
    Light stretching, guided movement, and support to increase comfort in sensitive areas.
  • Do I need a diagnosis to book this service?
    No diagnosis is required—we tailor care around your symptoms and our assessment findings.
  • What are signs that I could benefit from this type of care?
    If you experience numbness, tingling, or movement hesitation, we can support you with gentle, mobility-focused sessions.
  • How many sessions will I need?
    This varies, but clients often begin noticing relief within 2–3 sessions.
  • Will this affect how I run or exercise?
    Yes, positively! Improved foot mechanics often enhance performance and reduce strain.
  • Is massage part of the session?
    Gentle hands-on work is often used to release tension in the feet and surrounding areas.
  • What if my job requires long hours on my feet?
    We help reduce strain and teach recovery methods for physically demanding routines.
  • Do I need special footwear?
    Supportive footwear is ideal. We’ll review what you currently use and suggest adjustments if needed.
  • Are orthotics required?
    Not necessarily. We can advise if they may help, but focus on natural movement first and strengthening.
  • Will this help if I feel unstable while walking?
    Definitely. We work on coordination and balance to boost walking confidence.
  • Can this help with tight calves or ankles?
    Yes—tightness in those areas can affect your feet and your balance, we’ll address those too.
  • What kinds of movements do you focus on?
    Gentle stretching, strengthening, and gait (walking) support are typical.
  • Who typically books this service?
    People who stand a lot for work, experience heel/arch pain, or want better balance and mobility.
  • Can you work with my trainer or coach?
    Yes—we’re happy to collaborate with your fitness team to align your care.
  • How often should I book?
    It depends on your goals, but many active clients book weekly or biweekly check-ins.
  • What if I’m new to working out?
    That’s okay! This service is also great for building a foundation for safe movement.
  • Will this help with performance plateaus?
    Yes. Improving mobility and biomechanics can help you break through barriers and reach your next level of fitness.
  • Do I need equipment?
    No special equipment is required. If needed, we bring resistance bands or portable tools.
  • Can this prevent injury?
    Absolutely—supporting balanced movement reduces risk and keeps you active longer.
  • Will I get a warm-up or cooldown routine?
    Yes, we often suggest warm-up, cooldown, and accessory work to aid in injury-prevention tailored to your activity level.
  • How do you support performance?
    We improve movement mechanics, flexibility, and postural awareness to help you move better and keep you injury free.
  • Can it help me recover from a strain or sprain?
    Yes, we assist with gentle, mobility-based recovery and gradual strength-building.
  • Is this only for professional athletes?
    Not at all. This service supports anyone with an active lifestyle, from weekend hikers to gym-goers.
  • Is it okay to take breaks between sessions?
    Yes. We work with your schedule and energy levels to find a pace that works for you.
  • Is journaling or tracking recommended?
    If helpful, yes. Some clients benefit from tracking symptoms or reflections between visits. We will also discuss pacing throughout your day to help you identify helpful vs. aggravating activities.
  • Do you use hands-on techniques?
    Yes, we may use gentle touch or light tissue work based on your needs.
  • Can I still come if I’ve tried everything else?
    Yes—our personalized, supportive style helps many who haven’t found relief elsewhere.
  • How soon will I see change?
    Some feel better in just a few sessions, while others experience slower, steady progress gentle consistency is key when managing chronic pain.
  • Will this improve my sleep or rest?
    Many clients report better rest as movement reduces discomfort and stress.
  • Can I stop if I’m not feeling well?
    Absolutely. We check in throughout and adapt based on how you're feeling.
  • Do sessions involve intense exercise?
    No. We adjust everything to your energy, tolerance, and comfort level.
  • What types of pain do you help manage?
    Clients come to us with pain related to old injuries, tension, fibromyalgia, or general discomfort.
  • How is this different from standard physio?
    We use a trauma-informed, whole-person approach, recognizing how physical and emotional experiences intersect.
  • Can family be involved in sessions?
    Yes—caregivers or family are welcome to join or support during sessions as long as you are ok with them joining.
  • How do you ensure safety?
    We prioritize fall prevention, slow pacing, and constant check-ins to match your ability.
  • Will you come to assisted living facilities?
    Yes—we bring care to homes, apartments, and assisted living spaces.
  • Can this help if I’m recovering from illness?
    Yes. Our gentle approach helps restore energy, strength, and movement confidence post-illness.
  • How active do I need to be to start?
    You don’t need to be active at all. We meet you where you are and move gently forward from there.
  • What conditions do you commonly see?
    We often help clients with arthritis, joint stiffness, general reconditioning, or post-hospital care.
  • Can this help prevent falls?
    Yes. We focus on movement confidence, strength, and awareness to reduce fall risk.
  • Do you work around walkers or mobility aids?
    Absolutely. Sessions are adjusted based on your comfort, and mobility aids are fully integrated.
  • Can it help with balance?
    Yes. We often include balance and coordination activities tailored to your mobility level.
  • Who is this service ideal for?
    Older adults who want to stay active, prevent falls, or maintain independence at home.
  • Will you communicate with my surgeon or doctor?
    Yes—we’re happy to coordinate care plans and updates as needed.
  • Can this reduce swelling or stiffness?
    Yes, light movement and hands-on care often improve circulation and reduce stiffness.
  • Do you use equipment?
    If needed, we bring light tools or use home items for safe strengthening.
  • How long are sessions?
    Most are 45–60 minutes depending on your pace and post-surgical recovery plan.
  • Will this be painful?
    Sessions are gentle and adjusted to your comfort—nothing should feel forced.
  • Can this help me walk more comfortably?
    Yes, many clients improve mobility, gait, and confidence step by step.
  • What if I have stitches or swelling?
    We adapt sessions to your healing stage and avoid any sensitive or healing sites.
  • Do I need to leave home for care?
    Not at all. All sessions are brought to you for ease and comfort during recovery.
  • What types of surgery do you work with?
    Clients recovering from orthopaedic, cardiac, neurological, cosmetic, or general surgeries.
  • When can I start physio after surgery?
    Once cleared by your doctor, we can begin with gentle, recovery-focused support.
  • How long does it take to see results?
    Many clients feel relief in 1–2 sessions, especially when paired with mobility work.
  • Can ART improve flexibility?
    Yes. By reducing adhesions, it helps muscles glide more freely, often improving mobility.
  • Do I need to request ART specifically?
    You can—but Ashleigh will also suggest it if she feels it would benefit your session.
  • Is this covered under physiotherapy insurance?
    Yes, it is part of your regular physiotherapy treatment plan.
  • What conditions does it support?
    It’s commonly used for soft-tissue tension, limited mobility, or repetitive strain areas.
  • Can ART be used during regular physiotherapy sessions?
    Yes—Ashleigh integrates it into sessions when it's appropriate and helpful.
  • How is ART different from massage?
    ART is movement-based and focuses on specific tissues, while massage is often more general and passive.
  • Does it hurt?
    It may feel intense briefly, but many clients describe the results as highly relieving or a ‘good hurt’.
  • Is this therapy hands-on?
    Yes. It involves guided movement with light pressure to release tight spots or adhesions.
  • What is ART used for?
    ART is designed to relieve tension in muscles and soft tissue to support smoother, more comfortable movement.
  • How long does recovery typically take?
    It varies widely. Some recover quickly, while others need more time and care.
  • Do you coordinate with other healthcare providers?
    Yes—we can communicate with your doctor or neurologist if needed.
  • Will screen use be discussed?
    Yes. We provide practical guidance for returning to daily screen use comfortably.
  • Is there a return-to-work or sport plan?
    Yes. We build gradual progression plans depending on your goals.
  • What if I’ve had multiple concussions?
    We take your full history into account and design the pace of care accordingly.
  • Will this help with coordination?
    Yes. Our sessions support body awareness, balance, and gradual confidence in movement.
  • What if I feel tired quickly?
    That’s okay—we adjust sessions in real-time based on how you’re feeling.
  • Are sessions physical or cognitive?
    They combine light physical movement with strategies that support clarity and regulation.
  • What symptoms can this help with?
    Clients often seek help for fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and brain fog.
  • When should I start physio after a concussion?
    As soon as you’re cleared to begin light activity—we focus on gentle progression.
  • Is it safe?
    Yes. Ashleigh is certified and follows all professional protocols for your safety.
  • Can I request IMS?
    Absolutely. Just let us know if you’re open to trying it.
  • Is IMS offered during regular sessions?
    Yes, Ashleigh may incorporate it as part of your treatment plan.
  • Is there downtime after IMS?
    You may feel sore for 24–72 hours, but movement is encouraged unless otherwise noted.
  • Can I combine IMS with other therapies?
    Yes, IMS is often combined with movement, stretching, and soft tissue work.
  • How many needles are used?
    It depends on the area and your comfort. Often a small number is enough for results.
  • When is IMS recommended?
    It’s used for chronic tension, movement restrictions, or areas that aren’t improving with standard treatment.
  • Is this like acupuncture?
    IMS uses similar needles but is based in modern musculoskeletal science—not traditional acupuncture.
  • Is it painful?
    Most clients feel a quick twitch or release. Some describe a dull ache, followed by relief.
  • What is IMS?
    It’s a dry needling technique used to release tension in deep muscle layers and promote function.
  • Is Ashleigh certified in MPS?
    Yes. Ashleigh is currently the only physiotherapist in Vancouver certified in MPS.
  • Is it covered under my insurance?
    Yes. It’s included in your regular physiotherapy session.
  • Is it used in every appointment?
    No. It’s offered when it’s the right fit for your treatment plan.
  • Will I feel the results immediately?
    Some clients feel relaxed or looser right away, while others notice changes over a few sessions.
  • How long does MPS treatment last?
    It’s typically integrated into your standard session and lasts 10–20 minutes, depending on the area.
  • Do I need to do anything to prepare?
    No. Just wear comfortable clothing and let Ashleigh guide the session.
  • Is this safe for scars?
    Yes. It’s gentle enough to be used over surgical scar tissue and can support softening and tissue mobility.
  • What is it commonly used for?
    MPS is used around scar tissue, tight muscle areas, or injury sites to promote circulation and adhesion removal.
  • Does it hurt?
    No. Most people describe it as a gentle pulse or vibration that feels soothing. If there is an area with more scar tissue it may feel warm or briefly sharp.
  • What is MPS?
    It’s a handheld device that delivers low-frequency electrical pulses to help release tension and support recovery.

Physiotherapy by Treatment Type

What Clients Are Saying

Man Working Out

– J.M. Burnaby

Ashleigh provided exceptional care during my first post-op assessment. In my third week of recovery, she conducted a thorough evaluation, specifically targeting my surgery area with precision. Her expertise and tailored advice will significantly improve my healing process. Ashleigh’s professionalism, attention to detail, and patient-focused approach set her apart. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking expert physiotherapy care during recovery!

Woman in gym resting

– S.P. Vancouver

I chose to use Ashleigh’s mobile service. (ĀLow Mobile Physiotherapy). She was incredibly thorough and asked several thought provoking questions before proceeding to check my range of motion. She was able to identify several areas affected that were connected beyond my comprehension. I appreciated her time, care, and attention to detail. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a comprehensive Physiotherapist. Direct billing was a bonus!

Yoga Class

– S.O. Vancouver

I have been to many physios in Vancouver and I find Ashleigh the best. I went to Ashleigh because of a chronic arm injury. She took the time to explain the mechanics of what was going on in easy to understand, accessible language, and gave me simple exercises to do. Each visit she was extremely supportive, reassuring and positive. After a few treatments (and me doing my exercises) my arm pain was gone. I would highly recommend Ashleigh.

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