Our Body Is Meant to Move

When I was an executive director in senior living communities, I noticed a frequent topic was discussed between rehabilitation therapists (physical and occupational) and the resident (senior living communities refer seniors as “resident”); that topic was to educate and encourage residents to try to keep moving throughout the day. Sometimes we had to hold an interdisciplinary meeting with the resident which involved the community’s professionals (therapist, nursing director and sometimes myself) to encourage the resident to walk and exercise more often versus sitting most of the day.

We are made to move. Of course as we age there are hindrances and medical reasons that limit us from pursuing certain activities; however, if we are medically allowed we should always strive to keep moving and staying limber. As you are reading this you may think this is a no-brainer, though you’d be surprised how much of our aging population is moving less and sitting more. We must keep our muscle mass intact and focus on staying limber. Falls with the aging population are prevalent and one reason why falls are occurring and usually lead to an injury is because the individual is not striving to stay active each day by working on exercises that help the body stay limber and strong. Of course there are other reasons why we fall such as trip hazards (i.e. rugs, cords), not using assistive devices (i.e. walker, cane) and/or medication side effects; however, a majority of the falls with the aging population is because of lack of exercising and movement.

Here are two tips to keep you or your loved one active and limber (please consult your doctor before pursuing any of these suggestions to make sure you’re safe and healthy to do so)…

1. If you have a difficult time walking because of balance, you may need to purchase a walker. Walkers these days are nothing like the old school walkers with the tennis balls. Today’s walkers allow you to sit, carry items and offer brakes if needed. Purchasing a walker will help you stay safe while you’re moving.
2. Taking exercise classes such as chair tai chi and yoga, stretch and band classes. Classes are usually offered at senior centers, gyms (silver sneakers), and of course senior living communities. These classes will help you stay limber and hopefully avoid muscle atrophy.

Remember, we are created to move!