Poor Posture in Older Adults

Poor posture is prevalent in older adults. As we age, it is common for the head to move forward and the shoulders to round, which can cause chronic back and neck pain. Our swift, sure stride is replaced with a sort of shuffle.

Kyphotic posture can increase the risk of falling. Years of inattention to how the head and shoulders are positioned can lead to tight pectoral muscles and weak upper-back and neck muscles, which can result in postural kyphosis. At the same time, the Achilles tendon and hamstrings become tight, feet begin to shuffle and scuff the ground - this can lead to more falls.

By incorporating some stretches and strengthening exercises you can help:
. nearly 39 million Americans were 65 years or older in 2008 (2010)
. 13% of US population
. by 2050, this group will be 20% of US population

With age comes sarcopenia (age-related loss of skeletal muscle), impaired balance and decreased range of motion. Add poor posture and shuffling feet and the risk for falls escalates. More than one-third of adults aged 65 years and older fall each year in US.

In my next blog I will present helpful exercises to address this particular group.

Learn more about posture at my Stability Ball Training workshops accredited for Massage Therapists and Personal Trainers across Canada http://www.gaiaadventures.com/bodyball.html

Let's connect at info@gaiaadventures.com.

Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures
www.gaiaadventures.com

Stability Ball Training in Vancouver, Oct 28, 29, 30 in Edmonton, Nov 26, 27, 28 (7 primary credits MTAA/day).