Senior Safety Tips—A Strong Core
The Baby Boomer generation has reinvented the idea of aging. They are more active and taking better care of themselves. Even though our lifestyle is more active, there are still some things we need to consider. One of them is personal safety. In a series of blogs, I will be covering some things to consider as we age.
Some seniors have a fear of falling. This is reasonable, but with the right type of exercise and core strengthening, that could become less of a concern. Older adults can be active through walking and partaking in other physical activities, but they should certainly consider pursuing activity that strengthens their core. Some ideas are Yoga, water aerobics, resistance training, balance exercises, and classes that are specific to core strength. Consider joining a local gym or YMCA and see the types of classes that are offered. It is always a good idea to include core strengthening exercises so that you can remain strong and fit.
As an example of this, I would like to share a story about one of my water aerobics class members who is a regular participant. She commented to me that one day she slipped in an icy parking lot at a local drugstore. She said that she was a little scared about falling, but to her delight she was able to catch herself and get to the sidewalk where she was able to pull herself up and wipe herself off. She wound up getting a couple little scrapes, but nothing she was concerned with. She thanked me and said that if she didn’t do water aerobics regularly, she may not have been able to pick herself up like that. She could have very easily broken a hip. That is a fear with many of the active adults I encounter in my classes. Did I mention that she was 89 years old at the time!!!! She is now 90 and is still taking my water classes! She is my inspiration!
Having a strong core is very important for our physical well-being. It helps lessen the discomfort with any back issues we may get. We are able to be more mobile and can physically recover much faster.
So being active is one thing, but a strong core will help us stay physically active and allow us to do things we love to do or want to do that our parents would never dream of doing! Let’s go on a hike or do some rock climbing! How about kayaking down a river! The list is endless!
By Marie Giammarco
Marie Giammarco is a mid generation Boomer who came of age in suburban New York, 50 miles north of the city. A child whose mom and grandparents were Italian immigrants, her close knit family defined her growing up years. The product of an environment that revolved around food, health, and physical activity, she saw many elderly people age before their time because they lacked these things. She has a passion to help Boomers and Seniors to be active and live a longer, more healthy life.