The Best Exercises To Prevent Falls In Seniors
•Wellbeing
Share
Preventing falls in seniors is crucial for maintaining their general wellbeing. If you’re over 60 or are concerned about the safety of your older loved ones, we have some tips for you. These exercises are all tailored to the older ladies to enhance balance, strength and flexibility!
Tai Chi
This ancient Chinese martial art focuses on slow, flowing movements and deep breathing. Tai Chi improves balance, muscle strength and flexibility, making it ideal for fall prevention.
Yoga
Yoga incorporates gentle stretching, breathing exercises, and balance poses, all of which promote flexibility, strength and stability. One of the best parts about yoga is that poses can be accommodated to suit various fitness levels and physical abilities among seniors!
Strength Training
We’re not talking about hitting the heavy weights! But light weights and using resistance bands can help seniors build muscle strength, particularly in the legs and core. Strengthening these specific muscles can improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.
Walking
Yep, walking! Regular walking is a simple yet effective way for seniors to maintain balance and coordination. So, get yourself moving, but be sure to walk on flat, even surfaces if you aren’t big on walking to begin with.
Balance Exercises
Although yoga offers a lot of poses to improve flexibility, strength and stability, there are even more simple exercises that can help with balance and coordination. Some examples are heel-to-toe walking or walking on unstable surfaces like a foam pad — if you are to fall, you’ll be protected!
Chair Exercises
These exercises are perfect for seniors with mobility limitations or those who are quite sedentary. Chair exercises improve strength, flexibility and range of motion while seated or using a chair for support. We've got a whole range of chair exercises to try here.
If you’re an over-60 lady, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine. Although these are all low-impact exercises, you’ve got to know your limits! Just remember, consistency and patience are key to reaping the benefits of these exercises for fall prevention.