Let’s start with why care.
If you’re over the age of 50, you have a higher risk for falling. As in tripping and falling to the ground, getting badly bruised, breaking one or more bones – or way worse.
Did you know that falls are the leading cause of fatal injury? They’re also the most common cause of trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults.
As we age, rates of falls increase significantly. Every year:
Now let’s add high blood sugar to the mix.
Older people (as in over 50 – eek!) with diabetes have higher risk for and rates of falling. That’s due to slower reaction times, more “postural sway” or lack of coordination (how balanced you are when in motion), visual ability, proprioception (also called kinesthesia or the sense of oneself in relation to surroundings with movement and position), lower limb strength and cognitive function (think brain power).
That’s why the American Diabetes Association recommends balance and flexibility training 3 times a week for people aged 50 and above.
Here’s the easy part.
You can do very simple balancing exercises as part of your daily routine.
You don’t have to make this a whole, big commitment! It may sound. Like, “Oh great. Another 30-minute commitment” but that’s not the case. You can do this while you’re already sitting down or already standing up.
Yes! Do these while part of your routine. Here are examples:
These are just a few, simple ideas that really can improve your overall balance.
Falls can be devastating. With literally no added time commitment on your part, you can incorporate these easy balancing exercises into your daily routine and prevent a world of problems.
The information contained on Sweet People Club is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Any statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA or other governing body and any information and/or products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease or illness. Nothing on this website constitutes medical advice, nor is it a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before making changes to your diet, changing medications, or taking supplements that may interfere with medications.
Providing Education, Support, and Community for Individuals with Prediabetes, Type 2 Diabetes and Their Families