Are You Staying Flexible As You Age? (Many Aren’t). Here’s How
As a child, I noticed that older people didn’t move as easily as younger people. Sometimes I wondered why some people didn’t seem to be as flexible – before I ran off to play with friends and completely forgot about it.
As you get older, you might find yourself a little stiffer, perhaps a little slower. Your body might not react as quickly or as smoothly as it used to. Things that you used to do without thinking, now require a little effort.
It’s normal. It’s common.
But it doesn’t have to be.
As you celebrate more birthdays, your bones, muscles, and joints undergo changes. Joints can become stiffer, bones less dense, and cartilage can become thinner. All of this can make mobility (moving) and flexibility a challenge. But …..
- When you’re more flexible, it’s easier to perform everyday tasks.
- More importantly, being more flexible helps to prevent injury. Falling is a major cause of hospitalization as you get older.
- Being more flexible also allows you to remain independent as long as possible.
Let’s take a look at what you can do to help keep muscles and joints healthy to support your mobility and flexibility as you age.
Motion is Lotion
You may have heard that motion is lotion. This means that movement helps to bring lubrication to your joints.
If you want to move better, the trick is to keep moving regularly.
- Make time for a brisk walk several times a week.
- Look for ways in your daily life to remain active instead of becoming one with the couch.
Focus on Balance and Flexibility
Balance and flexibility are critical to allow you to stretch further and to keep you from falling. Exercises such as yoga and Pilates can help you to focus on both of these at the same time.
Tai Chi is another form of exercise that focuses on balance.
Maintain Vision
As you age, your vision can become less sharp. And when you have poor vision it’s difficult to remain mobile and prevent accidents.
- Visit your eye specialist at least once a year for a check-up.
- Eat foods containing omega-3 fatty acids for good eye health – oily fish such as salmon or mackerel is ideal.
Proper Footwear
As you age, it becomes more and more important to choose comfortable shoes that support you well.
- Shoes with good tread help you prevent slips and falls.
- You shouldn’t slide in your shoes, nor should you develop pressure sores and blisters.
More “sensible” footwear can still look good – you don’t have to give up your sense of style!
Use Mobility Aids as Needed
As you age you may find that you need a little assistance and support while walking and moving. Don’t fight it!
Accept their use because they will allow you to remain mobile and independent. For example, a cane can help provide support. A walker may also allow you to have support and balance so that you can continue to walk.
However, don’t rely on them totally, for ever. Make sure you stay flexible and mobile by moving around without these aids in a safe environment. By building up your own strength, you’ll need to rely less on external aids.
One More Thing
All of these tips are great for maintaining flexibility as you age, but the most important is to keep moving!
We’ve talked about physical flexibility – but there’s mental flexibility too. Don’t get “set in your ways”. Make an effort to do things differently sometimes – it can be fun to challenge yourself!
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Warm regards,
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