Improving Your Strength and Balance for a Longer Life Longevity Playbook
go to original June 12, 2023

We mostly hear about how dire the danger can be for older people who fall. And it's true: nearly a third of people over 65 fall at least once a year. Falls cause 90% of hip fractures and are the most common cause of brain injury in the elderly. Too often, hip fractures lead to disability and even death.

But balance is not just an issue for old folks. Falls injure people of all ages, resulting in lost work time, needless suffering, and painful rehab. Fortunately, you can prevent these things from happening at any age.

Start by strengthening your bones and muscles with exercise and resistance (weight) training. Then improve your balance with yoga, tai chi, or other techniques.

Finally, learn how to fall - and how to get up again. Find a class designed to teach you. The older you become the more important these steps are.

Test your balance: If you’re age 20-30, stand barefoot on one leg on a hard floor with your eyes closed for 25 seconds. Age 40-59, shoot for 18 seconds. Over age 60, men should last 4 seconds, women 5 seconds. Be sure to have a guardian standing nearby to catch you if needed.



For more info visit the website at Longevity Playbook

Related: 14 Exercises for Seniors to Improve Strength and Balance (Lifeline)

  Learn about Clinica de Rehabilitacion Santa Barbara