This afternoon I was leaving for the gym when I saw my neighbor struggling to get into an SUV. He's an older man and quite overweight. The man picking him up was trying to help him get in, but he couldn't do it. My neighbor was struggling and getting out of breath. I went and grabbed a step ladder and we helped him get in. So often people don't think about their health until it's gone and life is a struggle. We have to have foresight and think about preparing for a healthy future. As we age basic things become more difficult, but when we maintain a healthy diet, exercise, and stretch it makes life easier.
According to the CDC, Approximately 34,000 deaths from falls occur each year among adults 65+. It's the leading cause of injury-related death in this age group. We're all aging and it's important to make sure we have the best quality of life possible. Being out of shape isn't just inconvenient; it's painful and can feel embarrassing. My neighbor is a sweet man that I've known for a few years now. I bet he never imagined the situation that happened today. He couldn't lift himself up into the vehicle and at first when I tried to help he said, "No, you can't help me. I'm 300lbs." His ankles are swollen and he wears a brace on one leg. He always says hi to me and checks in on my life when I see him. I'm sure this was not an encounter he ever expected to have with me. It's ok to need help sometimes; there's no shame in that, and I love helping people, so I didn't mind at all!
But, if you can take good care of your health and build strength as you age it will make your life so much easier in the long run.
Ways Improve Strength and Balance
Exercise regularly, especially strength and balance training (e.g. resistance bands, walking).
Weight-bearing exercises
Physical therapy may help those already experiencing weakness.
Stretching significantly enhances mobility
It's important to think about the future and take steps to make sure we age well. We can't account for everything, but we can do everything in our power to make sure we age with strength!
