The Science of Aging Part 2

The Scope of the Problem

• Only 17% of individuals meet physical activities level prescribed by the American Heart Association.
• Older adults typically under-do exercises and consider heavy exercise “too risky”.
• The population that typically thinks of themselves as at risk to hurt themselves with an exercise are typically the ones who should be challenged with heavier loads.
• Fear of falls is increasingly prevalent as we age.
• Fear of falls is actually a predictor of falls.
• Other predictors of falls include:
  
  • Age
  • Cardiovascular endurance and speed
  • Grip strength
  • Ability to rise out of a chair without using your hands
  • Ability to get off the floor without external assistance

Acknowledging the scope of these challenges empowers us to take proactive steps and redefine our relationship with aging, striving for a healthier and more fulfilling journey through the years.

Check back for more posts on the aging process and how we can combat it.