“Elderly” and Empowered
As we age, it seems normal to feel weak, off balance and less active than before. We’re told that being tired, incontinent and forgetful is “part of getting older.” What if this was REVERSIBLE or this didn’t have to be the case at all?
Our bodies are intricately designed from birth and can heal itself, this doesn’t go away as we age. The human body loves to move, to eat good food, and rest. A good exercise program and proper nutrition can reverse the classic ailments of “old age.”
Find Exercise you LIKE
Discovering what makes you have fun, keeps you energized and makes you want to come back for more is key. There are many forms of exercise including: yoga, strength training, water aerobics, dancing, hiking, and Jiu Jitsu. Not only can this provide a fun way to improve strength and mobility, but often, these activities can go a long way towards fostering a social community that shares your interests! We want to stress the importance of maintaining a vibrant social life as a crucial part of an active and fulfilling old age. Talk with your instructor or physical therapist about areas you want to work toward.
Benefits of Regular Exercise
- Increased strength and endurance
- Decreased loss of muscle overtime
- Greater bone strength and density that decreases the risk of fracture
- Improved heart and lung health
- Continued access to the community and participation in things we love to do
- Increased energy and mood
When to Talk with a PT
Axes wants to emphasize the importance of starting early to improve your health and wellbeing. It’s not just about seeking help when issues become debilitating; it’s about taking a proactive approach to maintain your physical well-being.
If you’ve started to notice that you have difficulty with incontinence, the need to urgently go to the bathroom, or increased frequency in trips to the restroom, a pelvic floor physical therapist can develop a program to eliminate these issues.
An increase in the number of times you have fallen, a new difficulty with getting on and off of the floor, difficult carrying in the groceries, or if you find yourself walking slowly – these are all areas a physical therapist can design a program that is specific and addresses underlying issues.
A few good places to start for a program specific to you would be talking to your physical therapist, group classes at the YMCA, or local gyms and recreational complexes!
Live the Quality of Life You Deserve
In conclusion, the aging process doesn’t have to be synonymous with frailty and inactivity. Axes believes that with the right exercise and guidance, elderly individuals can not only maintain but improve their quality of life. It’s never too late to start, and seeking the assistance of a physical therapist can be the first step towards an empowered and active old age. So, don’t let age define your abilities; take control of your health, and enjoy your golden years to the fullest.
If you are in need of general re-conditioning, have had a recent fall or injury, or need help efficiently returning to daily activities, schedule your appointment at one of our 19 Greater St. Louis area locations.
Good news! Thanks to Direct Access now in Missouri – patients no longer need a prescription for physical therapy. Axes can see you for an appointment within 24-48 hours – even without a prescription.
