Elders who have trouble being steady on their feet are at a higher risk of falling. Falls in seniors can be very serious and even deadly. More than 90 percent of hip fractures are caused from falling and many times an elderly individual never fully recovers. Elder care can be beneficial to a senior who is having trouble with their balance by promoting three simple exercises.
Flamingo Stand – This is a simple exercise that involves standing on one leg while holding on to the back of a chair for 10 seconds. Then switch legs and do the same. Repeat the exercise five to ten times.
Your loved one may favor standing on one leg more than the other. This is normal. However, maintaining a good posture is important. Remind your loved one to stand with their shoulders, back, and head straight while doing the exercise.
Once they master this part of the exercise, you can have them try reaching the foot that they lift off the ground as far out in front of them as they can.
Rock the Boat – Ask your loved one to stand with their feet hip-width apart. Keeping their shoulders back and their head level, have them slowly shift their weight to one side lifting the opposite foot off the ground. Have them hold that leg off the ground for as long as they comfortably can without exceeding 30 seconds. Then slowly they should shift their weight to the opposite side, lifting the other leg. Repeat the process 5 times on each side. As they begin to feel more comfortable, they can increase the repetitions.
Walk the tightrope – With arms held out straight from their sides, have them try walking in a straight line, pausing for a second or two each time they lift the back leg off the ground. To start with, have them try taking 15 to 20 steps while keeping their head straight looking at a spot in front of them.
Home care for the elderly should encourage seniors to try these balance enhancing exercises. They may not realize the importance of maintaining good balance but informing them of the benefits can make them more eager to try these exercises.
Elder care should consult with their loved one’s doctor to make sure there is no harm to their condition by performing these exercises. If the doctor gives you the green light, you and your loved one will reap the benefits of these balance enhancing exercises in no time.
If you or an aging loved one needs elder care in the Roseville, CA area, remember Senior Home Care Services for all services needed. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
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