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The Importance of Balance Exercises for Seniors

The Cabana at Jensen Dunes

Assisted Living and Memory Support community on the Treasure Coast serving the Jensen Beach, Stuart and Port St. Lucie areas.

According to a study published in Disability and Rehabilitation, people in their 80s have 40 percent less strength than people in their 20s. While some seniors still maintain their 20s mentality – the body’s natural aging process is inevitable, and maintaining the strength and balance needed to complete everyday tasks can become challenging. Why are balance exercises so important as you age?

  • They can prevent major injury. If you have weak legs or hips, you have a higher risk of falling and fracturing a bone. A recent Harvard study found that balance exercises reduced falls that caused injuries by almost 40 percent. Check out this video on exercises for fall prevention.
  • They keep you mobile and independent. When you start losing your mobility, a piece of your independence can go with it. Balance exercises will help improve posture and strength, enabling you to stay moving longer and safer.
  • They’re good for you. After all, working to improve your balance is exercise. For the average adult, a one-hour yoga or Tai Chi session (two of the best forms of balance exercises) can burn several hundred calories.

At The Cabana, we have an on-site rehabilitation clinic that provides physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy to our residents. In addition, we offer a variety of fitness classes, such as swimming, designed with seniors in mind. For more information on these services, please give us a call at 772-332-1000.