A straight back, medical alert system can help keep seniors safe
December 7, 2010
It’s never too late to stand up a little straighter and former sports star Martina Navratilova recently shared with AARP.com just how important proper posture can be during the golden years.
She states that hunching or other improper posture while sitting can actually create stress throughout one’s back. Those who sit in front of computers all day may be most at risk, as they can compress internal organs and suffer from sore necks or shoulders.
The optimal posture is called the neutral spine, which helps align the back in its natural S resting position. This can help strengthen muscles and, more importantly, prevent the aging effect that poor posture can have.
Martina suggests several different exercises that can help improve posture, such as the Standing Y, where one raises their hands above their head into a Y shape and pinches their shoulder blades.
Seniors who work toward a better posture may also find that their balance has improved, which can help prevent falls. Those who are living at home may also want to invest in a medical alert system, which allows users to send a medical alert to family or doctors in the case of an emergency.
