Getting older is a part of life. In today’s world, the elderly are forming an increasingly large proportion of the world’s population. In Europe, the proportion of people aged sixty-five and older represents 19% of the total population. Clearly, the world’s population is aging in a way that simply was not evident in history. A large part of this trend is down to the fact that people around the world have access to improved forms of healthcare and medical services. In addition, the diets of millions of people are vastly improved from that of previous generations, and public education has led to an awareness of what is required for a healthy lifestyle. It can be challenging to stay active and continue to lead a fulfilling life as people become elderly. This article aims to explain three key ways in which the elderly generation can stay active in later life.
Exercise regularly
It is important to view exercise as a pleasurable activity that should also be carried out throughout life. Exercise is not just for the young or for athletes. It is something that offers lifelong health benefits and helps to reduce the risk of illness in the elderly. Research has shown that elderly people should aim to undertake 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week (such as brisk walking) in addition to spending two days a week undertaking activities that help to strengthen the muscles. Having a regular exercise regime is vital in reducing muscle loss in the elderly and maintaining strong bones. This can assist with keeping higher levels of mobility and reducing the likelihood of falls in later life.
Mobility problems in the elderly
For some elderly people, it simply may not be possible to undertake all forms of physical exercise. However, it is important to remember that elderly people with significant mobility problems that prevent them from walking can still stay active and not be restricted to staying at home on a permanent basis. A key way to get active for elderly people with mobility problems is by investing in a mobility scooter. These vehicles allow the elderly generation to continue to undertake pleasurable and sociable activities such as shopping trips or visits to a local park without having mobility issues prevent this. A mobility scooter can be the key to maintain an active and full life in later years for some people. Many manufacturers produce a range of mobility scooters for all needs and budgets, and new tyres for mobility scooters tend to be readily available at specialist outlets that serve the mobility needs of the elderly generation.
Look to prevent falls
When an elderly person experiences a fall, it can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, especially if bone density has reduced in later life. A fall can lead to long hospital stays and may make it exceptionally difficult to feel confident about getting around even when the injury has fully healed. It is, therefore, vitally important that the homes of elderly people are fitted with suitable devices and equipment that seek to minimize the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls. For example, showers and baths can have handrails fitted to ensure that any loss of balance can be corrected safely before a fall occurs and for safer access when getting in and out of the bath or shower. Beds can be fitted with adjustable rails that serve to protect an elderly person as they sleep and ensure that injuries are not sustained by falling out of bed.
