Exercise and the Elderly - Even a Little Helps
Here's a scary statistic: one in three adults over the age of 65 has a fall every year.
In 2004, almost 15,000 died from falls, and nearly 2 million went to emergency rooms for treatment of their injuries.
So a fall that might have resulted in just a skinned knee and a bruised ego in our 30's can become something much more serious in our 70's.
And since we heal more slowly as we age, the recovery time can be longer and more difficult.
It's one of those unpleasant facts of life that as we get older our balance and flexibility deteriorate, but that doesn't have to be the whole story.
With selected exercises, done right, even frail elderly people can regain some agility and improve strength, both of which help protect against falling.
Exercises that provide strength training help retain bone density and counteract the loss of muscle that can occur with lack of activity.
Other exercises like yoga, tai chi, and even balancing on one leg, can help improve balance.
Working in water can provide the benefits of exercise without adding stress to joints and muscles.
Even patients with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis, can exercise safely.
In a recent study at Duke University Medical Center, it was found that exercise can also be helpful in combating depression in older people, with or without medication.
As with anything related to the health and well-being of an older person, always consult the person's doctor or other health professional before changing any daily routines.
Even minimal exercise is not possible for everyone, but when it can be included a few times a week, it can provide many benefits: increased strength, improved balance, better flexibility, and a general improvement in frame of mind.
Caring for an elderly family member is more than just those activities of daily living.
The right caregiver can make a positive change in the life of your loved one.
At Dubols, we are committed to excellence in elder care, for we know that your loved one's health blossoms with tender care.
In 2004, almost 15,000 died from falls, and nearly 2 million went to emergency rooms for treatment of their injuries.
So a fall that might have resulted in just a skinned knee and a bruised ego in our 30's can become something much more serious in our 70's.
And since we heal more slowly as we age, the recovery time can be longer and more difficult.
It's one of those unpleasant facts of life that as we get older our balance and flexibility deteriorate, but that doesn't have to be the whole story.
With selected exercises, done right, even frail elderly people can regain some agility and improve strength, both of which help protect against falling.
Exercises that provide strength training help retain bone density and counteract the loss of muscle that can occur with lack of activity.
Other exercises like yoga, tai chi, and even balancing on one leg, can help improve balance.
Working in water can provide the benefits of exercise without adding stress to joints and muscles.
Even patients with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis, can exercise safely.
In a recent study at Duke University Medical Center, it was found that exercise can also be helpful in combating depression in older people, with or without medication.
As with anything related to the health and well-being of an older person, always consult the person's doctor or other health professional before changing any daily routines.
Even minimal exercise is not possible for everyone, but when it can be included a few times a week, it can provide many benefits: increased strength, improved balance, better flexibility, and a general improvement in frame of mind.
Caring for an elderly family member is more than just those activities of daily living.
The right caregiver can make a positive change in the life of your loved one.
At Dubols, we are committed to excellence in elder care, for we know that your loved one's health blossoms with tender care.
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