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The Best Ways to Boost Senior Mobility

You’re probably familiar with the old saying that goes: “If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.” When it comes to senior mobility, this tends to ring especially true. As you age, you might find certain tasks become more difficult — getting in and out of the car, climbing a flight of stairs, or vacuuming your living room, for instance. Many seniors begin losing some of their mobility because of chronic conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, which can make moving without pain problematic.

However, the less mobile you become, the more at risk you are for illnesses and injuries requiring hospitalization, or even injuries leading to permanent disability. Increasing your range of motion will help improve your health and overall quality of life.

6 Tips for Improving Mobility in the Elderly

The good news is it’s never too late to start improving your mobility. There are plenty of safe exercises seniors of all ability levels can enjoy regularly, and you’ll start to notice the benefits quickly. These benefits include increased strength, coordination, and balance, all of which are key to fall prevention. Additionally, you may notice a boost in your energy, an improved mood, and a slimmer waistline, too.

Even if you’ve already begun to experience a decline in your range of motion, now is always the best time to start improving your mobility. Here are six tips to get the blood flowing:

1. Start moving — slowly. First, visit your physician and discuss any limitations you may be concerned about. After getting the green light to get started, find some exercises you enjoy and start incorporating them into your routine for at least 10 minutes a day. For example, you can lift some light weights while sitting in your chair or take a walk around the block. Increase the length of time you exercise as you gain more mobility, aiming for 30 minutes a day.
2. Focus on improving strength and balance. Strong muscles and bones are key to improving your balance and avoiding a debilitating fall, so pay extra attention to exercises that strengthen your back, hips and core muscles.
3. Use the proper mobility aids. Ensure your safety and maintain your independence better by using mobile devices that can help you stay moving. Walkers and canes can provide the support you need to help you move about and lessen any fears you may have of falling.
4. Watch what you eat. A healthy diet keeps you energized throughout the day, and has additional benefits like lowering your risk for heart disease, reducing high blood pressure and cholesterol, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes. Start tracking what you eat so you can be sure you’re getting the appropriate amount of nutrients and calories. When you eat better, you feel better!
5. Enjoy a good night’s sleep. Without a restful night’s sleep, you become more prone to accidents and falls. This is because you don’t have the energy to pay attention to your surroundings, or you may feel weak and tired from lack of rest.
6. Don’t give up. Remember, doing something is better than doing nothing! Don’t get frustrated; just keep at it! Even 10 minutes a day can help improve senior mobility, so keep working to make exercise a daily habit.

Wellness and Enrichment is Our Focus at Advent Christian Village

At Advent Christian Village, we specialize in senior health and fitness programs that support members’ minds, bodies and souls. Our professionally trained staff personalizes programs with your individual needs and goals in mind. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a tour.