NBCOT Occupational Therapy Certification Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Recommending weight-bearing exercises for an elderly client with osteoporosis is appropriate due to the primary benefits these activities offer in combating the condition. Weight-bearing exercises involve activities where the body works against gravity, which helps stimulate bone density. This is crucial for individuals with osteoporosis because it can help prevent further bone loss and may even lead to improvements in bone strength.

In addition to enhancing bone health, weight-bearing exercises can improve balance, coordination, and overall functional mobility, minimizing the risk of falls, which is vital for elderly clients. These exercises can include activities such as walking, dancing, or even light resistance training that safely challenges the skeletal system.

While high-impact aerobics may also be beneficial to some degree, they pose a higher risk of fractures, which could be particularly concerning for someone with compromised bone density. Aquatic therapy, while excellent for joint protection and offering resistance, typically does not provide the weight-bearing benefits needed to specifically enhance bone density. Static stretching is beneficial for flexibility but does not address the need for weight-bearing activities to support bone health.

In summary, weight-bearing exercises are the most suitable recommendation for an elderly client with osteoporosis, as they directly support bone strength and overall functional abilities.