When was the last time you moved? According to Harvard Health, one-third of all adults over age 65 have mobility problems. Many of these people will end up having to move from their homes so they can get the care they need. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
What is Mobility?
To put it as simply as possible, mobility is the ability to move your entire body freely and normally. This might sound simple, but for many people, it is a real issue.
Lack of mobility only leads to greater issues. The longer they are left untreated, the worse they can get. For example, many people experience burning or tingling sensations in their hands and feet. If left untreated, this can potentially lead to neuropathy or amputations.
Because of the burning or tingling sensations, this will likely decline a person’s mobility. But, it can get better before it gets worse.
What’s the Damage?
According to Harvard Health, “engaging in physical activity is the single most important thing you can do to maintain mobility and independence, no matter your age or your health status.”
About 60% to 70% of diabetic patients are known to suffer from peripheral neuropathy. If not treated in time or managed well, it can lead to lower limb amputations. Each year, nearly 54,000 diabetics undergo amputations, 75% of which are preventable.
Arthritis prevalence is highest among adults reporting no leisure time physical activity (23.6%) compared with those who are insufficiently active or who meet physical activity recommendations.
Arthritis symptoms can be a barrier to physical activity, and inactivity among people with arthritis is associated with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and functional limitations.
However, regular physical activity can be an important way to reduce pain, improve function, and manage symptoms for people with arthritis and other chronic conditions.
So, what can I do about it?
5 Ways to Improve Your Mobility
Move Frequently and Regularly
According to the World Health Organization, not being physically active has negative impacts on health systems, the environment, economic development, community well-being and quality of life. 1 in 4 adults don’t meet the globally recommended physical activity levels.
The Mayo Clinic revealed that staying physically active will control weight, combat serious health conditions, improve mood, boost energy, promote better sleep, and much more.
Moving frequently can be challenging, but there are always ways to improve. Try going on a walk and talking to a friend, taking your kids or grandkids to the park, joining a water aerobics class or signing up at the local gym. The commitment itself will motivate you to move!
Eat Healthy
What does eating healthy have to do with mobility? Great question! Eating certain foods cause inflammation in the body making it very difficult or impossible to be active at times.
Here are FREE downloadable PDFs on the foods to avoid and the foods to enjoy for reduced inflammation:
Invest in a Product
Finding a reliable healing product can be a difficult task. The good news is, VIVZ has done all the work for you. The VIVZ Light Pad product improves mobility, reduces inflammation, and can make joint pain much more manageable. For more information on red light therapy, read our article.
Stretch Often
Stretching often will greatly improve your mobility and flexibility. Being able to warm up before stretching will make it much easier. When your body has been stretched, it allows for greater movement and more activity.
When you are tight and attempt physical activity, it can lead to strains or injuries. So stretching will help a lot with your mobility.
Remember S.E.M.
S.E.M. Simple, easy, movements. Starting with simple and easy movements like a walk or lightly weighted arm circles are going to help with your increased mobility. If you do too much at once, you could risk an injury. Doing simple movements can also help with general range of motion and flexibility.
A good place to start is an easy walk. You can gradually increase the intensity and length of the walk. Youtube has many videos on easy workouts or movements that will help with mobility and strength. As you get older, strength becomes increasingly important.
If you follow these five easy steps, you are on the right track to increased mobility!