Walking Helps Improve Balance

Many seniors are aware of the fact that a fall could threaten their independence and way of life. Common injuries include to the head, hip fractures, and in the most extreme cases death. Experts explain balance declines as we age as well as can be affected by medications and medical conditions, lack of flexibility and uncorrected vision problems. This is why medical experts encourage seniors to work on maintaining and improving balance. 

The Harvard Medical School says one of the simplest ways to improve balance is with exercises like walking, strength training and workouts targeted to improve stability. However before beginning any new exercise regime, consult your healthcare provider.  

Whether you are fairly active or living a sedentary lifestyle, experts say to remember minutes are more important than miles. If you are unused to exercise, start at the beginning. Also wear a good walking shoe, and if you use a cane or walker, use it. Again experts say it is safer to walk with a buddy and to bring along a cell phone. Walk in a place with an even surface, and especially in the beginning, stay close to home.  Once you start feeling more confident, add more minutes to your routine. 

For seniors who are already walking, try adding a few more minutes to your routine or a more challenging route. Experts say the overall goal should be to do at least 150 minutes a week. To add strength training exercises and workouts to improve balance, ask your doctor for advice on how to get started. 

MorningStar at Observatory Park is a new senior living community in South Denver’s Observatory Park area and promises to be one of the finest retirement communities in Denver. Our new 85,000-square-foot, 5-story community is designed to promote residents’ independence with a range of senior care and hospitality services, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities. We offer 60 suites for assisted living residents, and our distinct Reflections Neighborhood has 23 memory care suites to care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

We open to residents in spring 2023 and encourage you to ask about exclusive savings for early depositors. Our premium suites are filling fast so contact us today to reserve your select suite.