A wonderful piece from NPR this week put forth the idea, courtesy of gerontologist and commentator, Dr. Mark Lachs, that once an elderly person hits a certain age the rates of disease, disability and death begin to decline.
Lachs refers to the period as one of "escape velocity" and indicates that the data surrounding the situation seems to follow the notion that "things in motion tend to stay in motion."
Perhaps this is an opportunity to invite our senior friends and family to get moving!
We've all seen the challenges associated with a condition of life among older folks where it seems health decline and aging are inseparable, and the desire is to just try and get things moving again. But, of course, it's not that easy, and even if conditions associated with memory impairment are not present, the solution is not as easy as encouraging someone to get some exercise.
Another news article out recently simply says: Working Out Delays Aging. But does anyone honestly think this news is, well, news? Its not illness that causes the problems for seniors, instead its a lack of physical fitness, says the University of British Columbia study, on which the article is based.
It might be taken a step further, even. Consider the basic issue of flexibility, which is defined as the ability of one to move the joints through a wide range of motions. Pretty basic, in terms of definition, but the explanation goes further. Having flexibility means an increased range of motion, and enables one to participate in exercise, while also serving to prevent injury.
Flexibility can decrease significantly beginning in one's twenties, or certainly in the thirties. This may be a precursor to a loss of physical fitness, increased illness, decreased independence, and ultimately not making it to the period of "escape velocity" from poor aging.
There are easy steps one can take to solve this problem. Eldergym.com offers seniors basic exercises for re-developing flexibility, including steps for upper and lower body stretching as well as guidelines for overall practice.
The prospect exists for superior health, regardless of age, as well as sustained independence and vitality. Get moving to start yourself on the right path.
(Image Courtesy of Mike Baird on Flickr)
