Innovation for Intrinsic Bodily Precision Capacity

For a 91-year-old, 'Innovation for Intrinsic Bodily Precision Capacity' necessitates a focus on maintaining and gently restoring foundational neuromuscular control, particularly in areas crucial for daily independence and safety. The selected CanDo Theraputty set directly addresses this by providing a highly adaptable, low-impact method to enhance intrinsic hand and finger strength, dexterity, and proprioception. These capacities are fundamental to performing precise tasks, from buttoning clothes to holding utensils, without relying on complex external aids. The varying resistances allow for personalized progression, ensuring the tool remains developmentally appropriate and effective even with age-related changes, while minimizing the risk of strain or injury.

Implementation Protocol for a 91-year-old:

1. Setup: Ensure the individual is comfortably seated at a sturdy table with good lighting. Hands should be clean and dry before use. Have a towel or placemat to protect surfaces.
2. Initiation (Low Resistance): Begin with the softest resistance putty (e.g., Tan or Yellow). Emphasize gentle, controlled movements rather than strenuous exertion. The goal is fluid, precise motion, not maximum force.
3. Core Exercises (10-15 minutes, 2-3 times daily, or as tolerated):
   • Squeeze & Hold: Form the putty into a ball and gently squeeze with the entire hand, holding for 3-5 seconds, then relax. Repeat 8-10 times.
   • Finger Extension: Place the putty in the palm, then push the fingers outwards into the putty, spreading them apart. Hold briefly, then relax. Repeat 8-10 times.
   • Pinch Grip: Roll a small portion of putty into a cylindrical shape. Pinch it between the thumb and each finger (index, middle, ring, pinky), holding for 3-5 seconds. Repeat 5-8 times per finger.
   • Thumb Opposition: Press the thumb firmly into the putty, attempting to touch the base of the little finger within the putty. Hold and release. Repeat 8-10 times.
   • Wrist Rotation: Gently roll the putty between the palms, allowing for subtle wrist movements.
4. Sensory Integration: Encourage the individual to actively focus on the tactile sensation and proprioceptive feedback from their hands and fingers during each exercise, consciously feeling the resistance and muscle engagement.
5. Progression: As strength and control improve, gradually transition to the next level of resistance (e.g., Red). Only increase resistance if previous levels are mastered comfortably and without pain. The focus should always be on maintaining precision and control.
6. Safety & Hygiene: Discontinue use immediately if any pain, discomfort, or excessive fatigue occurs. Keep putty away from hair, clothing, and absorbent surfaces as it can stick. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after each use. Replace putty every 3-6 months, or if it becomes excessively dirty, hard, or loses its consistency, to ensure optimal therapeutic properties and hygiene.