Physical Fitness in the Elderly: Is It Necessary?

The commercials are common now: an elderly person falls and can’t get up, and the product being touted allows him or her to call for help. With that demographic suffering an accidental fall about every 18 seconds, there’s no question that falls are a real danger to the elderly. However, as they reduce movement to avoid these falls, the risks actually heighten due to a loss of muscle mass and bone density, and a weakening of overall strength and flexibility.

Luckily, there are many simple strength and fitness programs that are safe for older people that can help reduce injury risk from falls. Some nursing homes may even offer these programs. A participant will not be thrown into an

intense, high-impact program. Instead, simple and enjoyable dance classes, aerobics work, or frequent walks can reduce risks. More active participants can enjoy resistance training with bands or light weights, or even swimming laps.

The goal of any of these activities is not necessarily to build muscle or strength, but rather to provide the skills necessary to prevent a fall. For example, the elderly person would have the balance to right herself after tripping, or the strength to catch himself properly on the ground after a fall.

If you fear for the ability of your loved one to avoid injury in a fall, consider some fitness training as you move forward. If he or she has already been injured, contact an experienced nursing home abuse attorney to discuss your options. The lawyers at the Daytona law office of Zimmet and Zimmet are available today for a consultation