Do You Know the Secret to Successful Aging?

Did you know that 65% of adults age 65+ are considered physically inactive?

Did you know that strong muscles can support 80% of the forces our joints experience during functional activity, improving symptoms of pain from conditions like hip and knee arthritis?

With age, our bodies undergo a gradual decline in muscle mass and strength known as sarcopenia. Our strength peaks around 26 years of age then holds steady until 35-40 years of age. After 40, strength begins to decline at an accelerated rate. By the age of 65 we will have lost approximately 25% of our peak strength and up to 40% by the time we turn 80. This decline can make it difficult to participate in all desired activities and places us at high risk for loss of function and falls.

Did you know that more than half of adults over 65 report problems with movement, including walking 1/4 mile, stooping and standing?

Did you know that lack of leg strength is the number one risk factor of possible need for long term placement in a care facility?

Did you know that the key to preventing this decline and maintaining function is regular, intentional exercise?

Studies show that people in their 60s, 70s, 80s and even 90s or older can make significant improvements in strength and physical function, which is associated with improved health and quality of life. But that can’t happen unless your physical activity is intense enough to produce gains in muscle strength.

When you exercise, you should feel like you are working somewhat hard to hard. Set a goal to be physically active 30 minutes a day. You don’t have to do it all once. Even 5 or 10 minutes of activity is better than none. Strive for 150 minutes of intentional, moderate to vigorous activity per week.

Not sure where to start? As a movement expert, a physical therapist can perform a comprehensive evaluation, help you to set realistic goals, and safely prescribe an exercise program with dosage sufficient enough to generate results. With the guidance of a physical therapist, you can improve mobility, increase strength, maximize balance, decrease risk for falls, maintain your independence, and continue participating in your favorite daily activities.

All physical therapists are prepared through education and experience to treat a variety of conditions or injuries. As you age, you may want to consider finding a physical therapist who is a board-certified clinical specialist or who completed a residency or fellowship in geriatric physical therapy. This physical therapist has advanced knowledge, experience, and skills that may apply to your condition.

Did you know that Athletico Physical Therapy in Brooklyn employs the only Geriatric Clinical Specialist certified by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) within 40 miles?

For more information and to find your closest Athletico location, visit www.athletico.com or call the Brooklyn office at 517-879-4006.