How John Got His Balance Back at 82
At 82, John felt his independence slipping. “Even going up a curb was a challenge,” he said. “Walking ten steps felt like a win.”
Neuropathy in his feet made every step uncertain, and stairs felt dangerous. Without a routine, he worried about falling back into decline. “I’m not a very disciplined person,” he admitted. “But I didn’t want to go back to how I was.”
Finding Trust in Therapy
He didn’t know what to expect from physical therapy, but he trusted his therapist, Matt. “He seemed more confident than I was,” John said. “So, I just… showed up.”
That trust paid off. Week by week, John built strength and confidence. He went from barely walking to hitting 10,000 steps a day.
“I discovered something. I could do it. At 82.”
More Than Physical Progress
The biggest shift wasn’t just physical, it was mental.
“What I discovered is that the word ‘can’t’ was something I gave myself,” John said. “So, I changed that vocabulary and everything followed.”
John started doing things he never imagined: deadlifts, stairs, long walks. “I never did deadlifts when I was young, why would I now? But I did. And I didn’t want to give Matt the impression I couldn’t.”
A New Outlook on Aging
Today, John walks daily with his wife, who used to leave him behind. “Now she keeps up with me,” he chuckled.
He still lives with arthritis and occasional pain, but it no longer defines him. “I’m allergic to pain, I don’t like it,” he said with a grin. “But here? I push through it because I can.”
And when he sees others his age slowing down, he reminds himself: “I’ve been telling myself what other people my age believe. But I’m not them. I’m not going to be like them.”
Balance isn’t just about staying on your feet. Sometimes, it’s about finding your rhythm again. “The reality is right in here,” John said, pointing to his head. “It’s what you’re calling it to be.
Ready to Start Your Story?
John’s journey is proof that it’s never too late to get your life back. If you’re feeling off balance, stuck, or unsure where to start, let us help you get back on track. Our team of Physical and Occupational Therapists is here to help you prevent injury, stay active, and move pain-free.
Treatment is covered by insurance, no referral is required to start, and with flexible in-clinic and virtual appointments available, you can find a time that works with your schedule.
Call 716-458-1990 or use this button to schedule online:
Have a Story of Your Own?
If you’ve had a breakthrough, a win, or a moment that mattered, big or small, let us know. You could inspire someone just like John!
Want to share your story? Email dszafranski@buffalorehab.com or talk to your therapist. We’d be honored to help share it!