Use it or lose it!

The old saying “use it or lose it” is even truer as we age. While I was visiting my 90-year-old Mum last week her physiotherapist visited to complete her regular physical assessment. It was lovely to see the comfortable banter between Mum and the physio. I was impressed with the range of exercises Mum completed and the guidance, support and encouragement provided by her physio. It was a reminder to me to keep up the yoga!

Mum has participated in a home-based exercise program for the past 18 months. The physiotherapist updates the program to meet Mum’s needs and monitors her progress. The program is varied and often, on a sunny day, includes longer walks around her suburb. Having had a nasty fall a few years ago, resulting in a broken pelvis, and now living alone at home, Mum understands the importance of maintaining her balance and fitness to continue living independently.

The importance of physical activity in maintaining mental and physical wellbeing is well documented and a strong pillar of many services provided for older Australians by local, state and the Australian government. A range of classes, services and resources are available to help you get started. The Live Well Longer Let’s get physical resource provides links to a range of guides and services that will help you get started.

Become a Live Well Longer member to access our full range of free resources.

(image: iStock.com/wavebreakmedia)