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Getting Seniors To Stand Up For Themselves

At first glance, the title of this week’s blog may appear to comment on the ability of older adults to be brave and confident. At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we totally stand up for that – pun intended. We know how important it is for seniors to feel self-confidence. Often, that comes with the ability to be independent. This is why our products are uniquely designed to help older adults restore their independence.

With that said, our blog title is, in fact, referring to the ways in which senior citizens can restore their independence. Being able to literally get up out of a seat or a bed is a huge accomplishment for many an older person with a disability. So what can be done to help seniors achieve better strength and balance? What is necessary in order for them to stand up for themselves?

Exercise.

It should come as no surprise to you that exercise is a recommendation for developing better strength. You’re neither too young nor too old to get exercise. In the case of older adults, light exercise is important for maintaining and growing strength and balance.

As Philips.com points out, falls are one of the leading causes of injury and death for senior citizens in North America. The site goes on to suggest a number of exercises that can improve strength and balance in order to prevent falls.

They include simple activities such as marching in place and wall pushups. As well, various leg raises and walking exercises are recommended. Philips.com also suggests “Balancing Wind” as an exercise for seniors.

“This balance exercise for seniors can be performed while seated,” the site explains, “You’ll need a cane or some kind of stick. A broomstick works well for this – just remove the broom’s head before you start. Hold the bottom of the stick so that it’s flat on the palm of your hand. The goal of this exercise is to keep the stick upright for as long as possible. Change hands so that you work on your balance skills on both sides of your body.”

Nutrition.

You also shouldn’t be surprised to see healthy eating listed as a top way to improve the health of seniors. By eating well-balanced diets, we can all maintain healthy weights and have a lot of energy as we age. When you get the nutrients you need, you also lower your risk of developing chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, says Tara Gidus on Healthline.com.

“To meet your nutritional needs, eat foods that are rich in fibre, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Limit foods that are high in processed sugars, saturated and trans fats, and salt,” she advises, “You may also have to adjust your diet to manage chronic health conditions.”

Power lift chairs.

Do what you can to be strong and healthy – it really is that simple. However, it’s not so simple for some seniors. Certain ailments make getting up on your feet in a safe and steady way very difficult. Thankfully, power lift chairs can help. These power recliners assist you in getting up or sitting down by raising or lowering with just the touch of a button. Power lift chairs also reduce back pain by allowing you to sit down more gently.

To learn more about the power lift chairs offered by Advantage Home Health Solutions, please don’t hesitate to call us 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!

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