Santa Clarita Seniors: Improving Mobility as we Age
Losing the ability to do once basic tasks like walking up and down stairs as we age can be a depressing and traumatic experience. Loss of mobility means a loss of independence and often an increased burden on others and possibly even our finances as we are able to do less and less things for ourselves. An increased risk of falls and other injuries comes along with this decreased range of motion and physical capacity as well.
Another factor in what makes us lose mobility is that as we age our bone density decreases, known as osteoporosis, making us more vulnerable to fractures and breaks. We also have decreased balance, strength, flexibility and stability which makes falls more likely and other activities more difficult.
Fortunately, there are a variety of exercises that can be used to improve all these factors even for seniors who have not led an active lifestyle for many years.
Balance: this factor is often neglected but plays a significant role in our ability to do any task that involves standing or walking. Low-impact exercise like yoga and tai chi can greatly improve balance.
Strength: Muscles support your joints and bones so keeping them strong helps your body overall. This does not mean you have to lift massive weights to gain strength either, this can be done with exercise bands and lighter weights.
Flexibility: Reduced activity as we age often leads to reduced flexibility of joints. Tai chi and yoga are also good for this along with other basic stretching moves.
When starting an exercise routine it is imperative you consult your doctor first especially with older patients who may not have been active for some time. In-home, non-medical care professionals can help with basic exercises and with accomplishing tasks that a patient is no longer able to do like cooking or laundry. Santa Clarita, California residents can contact Comfort Keepers for compassionate home care that has a variety of services to increase mobility, independence and quality of life.
For more information on home care services in Santa Clarita Download our free Home Care Answers Kit: www.InHomeCareReport.com
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
