Anyone who is physically active should realize there are potential dangers involved no matter what exercise program or sport they are involved in. However, active seniors should especially understand the risks involved regarding whatever activity they choose. As their body ages, it is no longer as strong as it used to be and therefore more susceptible to injury. Knowing the possible dangers can help seniors plan their workout regimen to help keep them safe.
Accidents and Injuries
Seniors are often more prone to physical injuries and accidents because they can no longer fully support their body as they used to when they were younger. Also, aging seniors are more vulnerable to falls because their sense of balance isn’t as stable as it used to be. One of the most helpful steps they or their family members can take is to elder-proof their home.
Installing such items as guard rails and non-slip treads on stairs can help prevent accidents when working out at home. Install rails on the walls, especially near steps and stairs. The floor has to have good traction when the elders are stepping on it to avoid slips and falls. Wearing shoes made especially for walking will help them keep their balance whether they are walking outdoors or stepping in place inside. When elders are walking or participating in any outdoor sport, they should dress for comfort.
Activity Intolerance
Because aging seniors no longer have the same strength, conditioning and endurance they did when they were younger, it is very important that they have a physical exam prior to undertaking any new physical activity. Their health care provider will let them know what types of exercise programs they can participate and which ones to avoid.
Also, if at all possible, seniors should be aware of their own bodies and how much exercise they can tolerate. If they can no longer tolerate activities they have performed in the past, they should accordingly modify their program. Those who are responsible for assisting them should monitor their progress in order to keep them safe. They should never be pushed beyond their level of endurance.
Risk of Physical Inactivity
A greater concern to seniors may be the risk of physical inactivity. The less active aging seniors remain, the more likely they will lose the strength and endurance they need. In fact, they can die from lack of activity. Studies show that the body needs muscle in order to remain healthy. When people stop exercising or building muscle their body is put at risk. Not only does the body itself need muscle, but so does the heart. A strong body leads to a strong heart.
As we age, it is more likely the lack of muscle will cause our death rather than the aging process. Although active seniors must consider the risk of possible injury, they need to realize there are many more benefits to exercise than there are risks.
0 responses so far ↓
There are no comments yet...Kick things off by filling out the form below.
Leave a Comment