As we age, we might need a little help from our friends. In this case, it’s a walker, cane or reacher.
Walking and Exercise: I’m sure you’ve heard this a million times. If you don’t use it, you will lose it. You’ve heard it so often because it’s a fact. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. It builds strength and stamina in your feet, legs and core. The core is all the muscles deep within our abdomen and spine. They keep us upright. So, walk it out. Any amount of walking is great. The point is, keep moving!
Shoes: Shoes are so very important! You have to make sure they fit well. Not too small, not too big, just right. (Sounds like Goldilocks and the Three Bears!) Shoes that are too small will restrict your feet and cause pain, discomfort and lack of a good base of support. When your shoes are too big, your feet slide around and can lead to toe deformity as well as stumbling from the shoes getting in the way. A big no-no for shoes are the slippers and shoes called Mules that are open in the back. Avoid these, as they can slip off and cause a tumble.
Throw rugs: Yes, they are pretty and they are warm if you have wood floor or tile, but they are dangerous. A trip or fall is not worth it! Only one sentence is required here. Throw out the throw rugs!
Assistive devices: As we age, we might need a little help from our friends. In this case, it’s a walker, cane or reacher. The walkers nowadays are like a fancy new car with all the bells and whistles. They not only give you something to hold on to for stability, but some even have a little compartment to carry things. Your doctor or friendly neighborhood medical supply store can help to get you fitted and set up with the perfect walker or cane. Reachers or grabbers are amazing devices that you use to pick things up from the floor or to reach things from a tall shelf. That is correct, no bending over to pick up that dropped tissue and no climbing on a step stool or chair to reach for that can of green beans.
Moving with intention: As we age, it’s very important to move slowly and not rush from one position to the next. When you are lying in bed, don’t move quickly to standing. Instead, roll to your side, allowing your body to acclimate to the situation. Then, slowly move from lying down to seated. Again, stay seated on the edge of your bed for several minutes while taking some nice deep breaths. Place your walker in front of you. Then, with intention, move to stand. Breathing in and out as you stand and get your bearings. Then, you can begin to safely make your way to wherever you are off to.
Cleaning up your outdoor walkways: This can begin before the snow and ice appear. Making sure your walkways are clear from debris and clutter is so very important. Once the snow and ice do come it will be easier to shovel and sprinkle the de-ice products.
If we had to decide on a moral to this story it would be: always be prepared, move with intention and, of course, ask for help. The fact that you are reading this article is a perfect way to start after all. Knowledge is power. QCBN
By Candace Lea
Candace Lea, MBA, is the community liaison and marketing person for Adult Care Services. She also teaches yoga in the Quad Cities Area. www.adultcareservices.org
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