By Bronwyn Ison
As we mature with age it is natural for us to change. As we know, change is constant. Fortunately, we have numerous resources to assist with just about anything we need. Often times, it will require on your behalf for you to remain diligent in the process of taking care of yourself. During the course of the last few weeks I have researched and learned startling statistics about people falling down.
According the Center of Disease Control (CDC), unintentional fall death rates are soaring for adults 65 and older. One out of five falls results in serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury. Each year, 2.5 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries. Over 700,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury or hip fracture. Each year at least 250,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures. More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by the person falling sideways. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Adjusted for inflation, the direct medical costs for fall injuries are $34 billion annually. Hospital costs account for two-thirds of the total.
These statistics should be of concern for each of us. Your physical balance needs to be a priority as you mature. As a yoga studio owner and instructor we practice balance in almost every class I teach. While the statistics may reflect numbers for a population that is 65 or older, it is never to early or to late to commence a physical balance practice. We may share the mentality these incidents will never happen to me. Or, I am too young. According to my research, our balance and coordination is compromised as early as in our forties. Think now and plan ahead.
There are numerous contributors as to why people fall down. Without becoming overly technical here are few examples. We are likely to experience impaired vision and hearing as we age. We have what is called a vestibular system. The vestibular system is another sensory system that can begin to function poorly as we age. Vertigo, also known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) causes dizziness and is common in older adults. It is caused by debris that has been collected in the inner ear. The debris is called, otoconia. They are small crystals of calcium carbonate. When the crystals shift, a false signal is sent to the brain and causes dizziness or vertigo.
If you are forty or older, it is time you commence a physical practice in balance. Yoga and Tai Chi are exceptional modalities for improving your strength, confidence and balance. Avoid becoming a statistic and take control of your physical balance.
Evolve Yoga is hosting a one-day workshop, Core Balance Workshop. Check it out!
Are you looking to improve your postural balance? Strengthening your abdominal muscles and lower body are key ingredients to helping improve balance. Improving your balance in mind and body will result in greater peace of mind and overall security. We will work on series of yoga postures, strengthening exercises and abdominal strengthening to help you realize greater balance. The workshop includes a short lecture to include a short Q & A session. $30 (pre-registration is highly encouraged)
Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga, www.e-volveyoga.com 760.564.YOGA (9642)
