Balance Exercises Can Help Prevent Falls

We know that each year more than one-third of people age 65 or older suffer a fall and many of those incidents cause serious injuries or in some cases even death.  This is why preventing falls is extremely important for the elderly, and balance as well as strength exercises can help to prevent falls.     

The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends 5 simple exercises that do not require any special equipment other than a chair (and someone to assist you if needed) that can improve balance and increase lower body strength. The series of exercises include the following:  standing on one foot; walking heel to toe; balance walk; back leg raises; and side leg raises. 

These easy-to-do exercises can be done throughout the day and only take a few minutes to do each of them.  For further instructions on how they should be done, the NIH website offers a video on each exercise.  In addition the NIH recommends that seniors try to do three other types of exercises that focus on improving endurance, strength and flexibility. 

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we recognize the importance of exercising, and as such, we will be providing our residents with a full calendar of daily activities once we open in the fall of 2016.   One look at the monthly calendars of our sister communities shows there is something that is sure to please everyone.  Our calendars include: group exercises, moving and grooving, morning strength, balance and posture, flex and stretch, relaxation and chair exercises.  We encourage you to visit the models in our newest community in the Valley of the Sun as now is the time to get the best suite selection.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Before beginning any exercises, please consult with your health care provider.

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  We invite you to schedule a visit to see our model suites and learn more about assisted living in the Scottsdale/Fountain Hills area.   

Source:nihseniorhealth.gov/exerciseandphysicalactivityexercisestotry/balanceexercises/01.html