Getting Started
It’s never too late to start exercising…….whatever your age or circumstances. Even a small amount of exercise can and will make a difference to how you feel.
Given the right exercise programs and the elderly will feel stronger, fitter and have more energy to enjoy life.
As a physiotherapist I see people every day who have been affected by a fall. I see first hand the impact this has on their lives, not just the physical trauma and often long rehabilitation ahead of them, but the emotional turmoil and loss of independence.
Also, their reduced functional ability to carry out normal activities of daily living where simple tasks such as sitting to stand from a chair, getting out of bed, climbing the stairs or even using the toilet which we take for granted become much more difficult.
All too often the emotional and psychological scars a fall causes greatly impacts their ability to engage with therapy. I am lucky that with the people I see I am able to assess and treat providing a tailor made exercise program which is completed by me or one of my colleagues on a daily basis.
I work on specific problems unique to the patient over sessions lasting several weeks providing support and motivation to help achieve their goals.
Simple exercise programs for the elderly can significantly reduce your risk of falling !
Why Exercise ?
There are many reasons why we tend to slow down and become more sedentary with age. It may be due to lack of motivation, health problems, weight or pain issues, or worries about starting to exercise in case we fall. Or perhaps you think that exercising simply isn’t for you.
But as you grow older, an active lifestyle becomes more important than ever to your long term health. Getting moving can help boost your energy, maintain your function and independence, increase your exercise tolerance, help control your weight and manage symptoms of illness or pain.
Benefits of Exercise for the Elderly
Improves strength, posture, balance, flexibility and co-ordination
Exercise protects against loss in bone mass. Better bone density will reduce the risk of osteoporosis, prevent broken bones and help lower the risk of falling
Weight bearing exercise helps increase bone strength and greater joint stability
Helps maintain ability to live independently
Increases your energy and help your mood
Help lower blood pressure and reduce risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, depression, strokes and dementia
Improves your immune function
As we age our bodies take longer to repair themselves, aches and pains become more frequent, our joints becomes stiffer and we can no longer reach in cupboards or pick up items off the floor like we used to do.
Moderate physical activity is good for people of all ages and ability levels. In fact, the benefits of you exercising regularly far outweigh the risks. Even elderly people with chronic illnesses can exercise safely.
I can help show you the many types of exercises I currently use to help people who have fallen, or are at greater risk of falls in the future. Remember old age is not only associated with an increased risk of falling, but also a higher risk of fall-related injuries.
Take action today…and look forward to a brighter, more active and fulfilling life well into old age !
