I have been working on how to introduce a study about older adults having an increase in escalator injuries. The injuries aren’t usually very serious and mostly happen just standing on the moving steps. The cause of the slips, trips and falls seems to be about visual balance cues increasing with age. Looking down at the steps makes folks dizzy. I was researching ways for seniors to improve balance, strength and agility to compensate. A while back I told you I called the physical therapy conference hotline and they sent me some brochures about balance and falls. There were some exercises and advice about taking Tai Chi but they really want you to see a Physical Therapist.
Ultimately, I found a lady named Joey who teaches people to use walking poles. These lightweight sticks used in both hands like cross country ski poles increase the cardio-conditioning of a simple walk by 20%. They help you burn 48% more calories and reduce joint impact on the lower limbs by 26%. She let me and my wife try them out and gave us a few pointers on adjusting the length and foot pads on the poles. They were easy to use and I think a better safety choice than a single cane or stick. Walking is great exercise and enjoying it is the biggest factor in keeping on an exercise plan.Joey is 73 yeas old herself and besides working and being a caretaker she is promoting the walking poles because of her own recovery using them. She’ll be at the Temple City Health Fair on April 26 at Temple City Park teaching a clinic on walking poles. Or you can email her at walking4fitness@charter.net. In the meantime, use the elevator.