Statistics reveal a concerning reality: Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults & breaking a hip can significantly impact quality of life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in four older adults falls each year.
For those who fall & sustain a hip fracture, the consequences can be dire.
Research indicates that 20% of those aged 50+ who suffer a hip fracture will die within a year. And only about half will regain their pre-fracture level of independence.
This decline in mobility not only affects physical health but can lead to a decrease in mental health & overall life satisfaction.
The loss of mobility can create a vicious cycle…reduced activity leads to muscle weakness & balance issues, increasing the risk of future falls. This decline makes everyday tasks challenging, leading to a greater reliance on caregivers & a loss of autonomy, which further contributes to feelings of depression & isolation.
Staying strong & mobile is not just about physical health; it’s about preserving your independence, enhancing your quality of life & reducing the risk of severe consequences from falls.
You don’t need to do the pistol squats that I’m doing here in the video to improve balance.
Here are 10 common exercises that can help:
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1.Tai Chi…
2. Standing on One Leg…
3. Heel-to-Toe Walk…
4. Chair Stands (Sit in a sturdy chair and stand up without using your hands)…
5. Side Leg Raises (Stand holding onto a chair for support, and lift one leg out to the side. Hold for a few seconds, then lower it back)…
6. Balance Beam Walk (Use a tape line on the floor or a balance beam and walk along it)…
7. Marching in Place…
8. Wall Push-Ups…
9. Yoga…
10. Resistance band & strength training exercises…
What did I miss? What are YOU doing to stay strong as you age? Drop a comment with your suggestions…
And I’m always here to help you get moving, let’s talk: http://tinyurl.com/ShawnaK-blog
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