Pilates for Older Adults
Older Adults, A Definition
- The definition of “older adult” varies, depending on different perspectives and purposes.
- Gerontologists ( people who study aging) traditionally focus on persons ages 60 years and older.
- Many older adults do not label themselves as ‘old’ even at advanced ages.
The Changing Demographic
The number of people in Australia aged 80 years and over increased from 218,000 in 1976, to 485,200 in 1996, and is predicted to grow to 852,100 by 2016.
The proportion of women in the aged population also changes over this period decreasing from 58% in 1976, to 56% in 1996, and is expected to decrease further to 54% in 2016.
Prepared by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
Common Medical Conditions
Below are some medical conditions seen in the older person, and some may coexist.
Cancer
Hypertension
Cardiovascular Disease
Cataracts
Back Pain
Lack of Strength
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Osteoporosis
Urinary Incontinence
About Medical Care for the Elderly
by Thomas Day
http://www.longtermcarelink.net
Exercise Areas to Focus On
Strength Exercises
Build muscle and increases metabolism. This helps with weight control and blood sugar levels.
Balance Exercises
Improved balance may assist in staying independent by helping avoid falls.
Mobility / Stretching
Improved freedom of movement. Enables a active lifestyle.
Why Pilates
Low Impact
Kind to the Joints
Focuses on Breathing
Focuses on Controlled Movement
Emphasis on Quality not Quantity
Elongates and Strengthens Muscles
Build Core Strength
Encourages and Improves Joint Mobility
Psychological and Physical Benefits
Cardiovascular Benefits
- Improved Oxygen Utilisation
- Better Delivery of Oxygen and Nutrients to Muscles
- Decrease Glycogen Storage Sites
- Decrease Resting Heart Rate – improved Coronary Blood Flow
Decrease Blood Pressure and Obesity
Improve Blood Sugar Control if Diabetic
Decrease Bone Loss Associated with Osteoporosis
Osteoarthritis – Increased joint mobility and Muscle Strength
Companionship
Lifecare Pilates 2003
Author: Nicole Vass
Pilates can assist older adults in getting active and enjoying the later years of life.
