The passage of time can take its toll on the human body, decreasing strength and mobility while increasing the risk of falls and other injuries. Rather than letting age dominate what you can and cannot do, take the bull by the horns and seize back your ability to be a healthy and active senior. Your health is in your control.
The following eight tips are essential for aging well and are brought to you by a team of physical therapists who are committed to keeping you as healthy and fit as possible.
Eight Tips Essential for Aging Well
- Age Doesn’t Define You – Age is just a number. It doesn’t mean you are unable to do things you once did. Ever wonder how people in their 70s can complete an Ironman race? They work at it. Keep active, and you will keep your body younger than someone that doesn’t. It is never too late to start. Start today.
- Surgery Isn’t Always the Best Choice – Some people want a quick fix for their pain and opt for surgery instead of therapy. This isn’t always the best choice. Orthopedists, who are trained surgeons, are one of the first providers to refer a patient to physical therapy BEFORE surgery. This is because weaknesses in the body cause many of the pains we experience. If you strengthen the body, the pain is often reduced.
- Exercise Helps Prevent Falls – Many of our older population are fearful of falling. As such, they eliminate doing many of the things they enjoy, including exercise. The challenge with this mistaken theory is that by not exercising, the body is more susceptible to falls and other injuries. Incorporate strength training and weight-bearing exercises for optimal health.
- Prevent Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease – People that maintain or improve their fitness levels in old age may reduce their risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Exercise helps the brain by increasing blood flow and the production of chemicals that protect the brain from memory decline. One Swedish study found that women who were highly fit, which means they exercised daily, were 90 percent less likely to develop dementia than those who were the less fit. Stop smoking, stay socially involved and learn new hobbies.
- A Body in Motion Stays in Motion – If you keep moving, your body will allow you to keep moving. If you live a sedentary existence, your body is more susceptible to injury. Keep your body moving every day for optimal health. Go to the pool and take a water aerobics class, try Yoga or Tai Chi, explore gorgeous Central Oregon by taking walks and hikes on the many trails we have nearby. Keep active, and your body will allow you to stay active. Many senior centers have group activities you can join.
- Prevent Osteoporosis – Exercise, and more specifically, weight-bearing and muscle strengthening exercises, are essential for building and maintaining bone density. Some examples of muscle strengthening exercises include weightlifting, using exercise bands, and yoga. Examples of weight-bearing exercises include walking, hiking, dancing, jogging, tennis and pickleball. Avoid heavy drinking and excessive weight loss. Ensure that your diet is nutritious.
- Reduce Chronic Pain – While this may be contrary to what many believe, addressing the cause of the pain through physical therapy, and then strengthening the muscles and joints through a guided exercises program can help eliminate chronic pain. A stretching regimen will also reduce chronic pain.
- Get on the Path to Optimal Cardiovascular Health – Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the US. Exercise – especially cardio exercise (running, swimming, aerobics, biking), helps the heart muscle become more efficient and better able to pump blood throughout the body. This allows the heart to beat slower, lowering blood pressure. Work your heart muscle.
Aging well can be a reality for you and those around you. Daily steps should be taken to ensure optimal health in the future. If pain or weakness is keeping you from doing the activities you enjoy, don’t delay care. Schedule an evaluation with one of our physical therapists or your medical provider.