By Dr. Leonard J. Somarriba, PT, DPT, CSCS
Today we know more about the aging process than ever before. The importance of maintaining fitness and an active lifestyle is paramount to living a long and healthy life. There are currently 78 million Baby Boomers born between 1946 and 1964 in the United States, according to the U.S Census Bureau, which has created an urgent need for research, resources and education about healthy aging.
An emphasis on healthy aging is not only beneficial for the many people over the age of 65, it may also help to save on healthcare costs for the entire country. For Americans ages 60-69 (approximately 34% of the population), their greatest financial risk during retirement years is a catastrophic, out of pocket medical expense associated with a major health event (Hartford Financial Services Group).
In addition to major health events, chronic conditions like back pain, arthritis, repetitive use injuries, posture related conditions and balance problems accumulate significant medical costs over a person’s retirement years. The maintenance of physical fitness is proven to reduce the risk of chronic conditions and help older adults continue to enjoy an independent and fulfilling lifestyle.
A Doctor of Physical Therapy can help you greatly enhance your quality of life by reducing pain and allowing you to return to your everyday activities as independently as possible. Physical therapy is a valuable asset as the first line of defense prior to, or sometimes instead of surgical intervention for conditions like lower back pain. A Doctor of Physical Therapy will perform a comprehensive evaluation by assessing your posture, movement, muscle performance, joint range of motion and medical history. Your Doctor of Physical Therapy will help you come up with long term and short term goals, as well as a plan of care.
During physical therapy, you and your therapist will work together to meet your goals and reduce your pain. The recommended level of activity for adults is 30 minutes each day focusing on strength, endurance, balance, and coordination. By receiving physical therapy treatment, older adult can safely progress to the recommended amount of physical activity and increase their level of fitness. It is important to speak with a medical professional prior to starting any new physical activity to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken.
If you find that you experience chest pain or dizziness during exercise, you should stop immediately and consult a medical professional. Older adults can exercise more safely by starting with a low intensity warm up, choosing activities that are not extremely vigorous and drinking enough water to stay hydrated.
The maintenance of physical activity and fitness is of great benefit to everyone throughout their lifetime. For older adults, fitness is even more important due to the valuable benefits it provides for their quality of life, as well as preventing expensive, out of pocket medical costs. By staying fit, you can do your best to insure that you are able to continue enjoying your favorite activities.
As a person ages, taking good care of one’s body leads to better health, the maintenance of intellectual capacity and sustainment of financial stability. Schedule a free consultation at ProFysio Physical Therapy to experience the best care possible and make the changes you need to stay fit after 50.
