Mobility & Fitness Archives

Harvard-Led Study Suggests Yoga Helps Protect Against Frailty

May 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Medical frailty refers to a loss of function, strength, stamina, and overall health and fitness. It can raise the risk of falls, hospitalizations, and death. But in a review of 33 studies, published in Annals of Internal Medicine (March 14, 2023), researchers from Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s … Read More

Under the Influence of Ageism

May 23, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Remember that old saying, “Sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt me”? Well, that’s not quite true when it comes to ageist comments and behaviors. Consider this: You see a social media post featuring an older couple happily holding hands. The caption reads: “Adorable geezers … Read More

Avoiding Dehydration

May 23, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Most people get thirstier during the hot and humid summer months, which is good because staying well hydrated is essential for good health. “Hydration helps lubricate our joints, keeps our skin and nails healthy, and it keeps our metabolism moving,” explains Dana Hunnes RD, MPH, PhD UCLA Medical Center. “But … Read More

Do You Lean on Your Shopping Cart?

May 23, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Spinal stenosis can cause pain in the legs and/or the lower back when walking, and that pain it is often relieved by leaning forward. That’s why some people lean on a cart while shopping. Spinal stenosis refers to narrowing of the spinal canal or the spaces where nerves exit the … Read More

Are You Losing Muscle?

May 23, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

We all lose muscle as we age. Roger A. Fielding, PhD, a professor of biochemical and molecular nutrition at the Friedman School and senior scientist of the Nutrition, Exercise Physiology, and Sarcopenia Team at the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, leads a team of people working to uncover the … Read More

How Much Exercise?

May 23, 2023 · Kristen N. Smith, PhD, RDN, LD · Aging & Independence

Q: How much exercise should I be getting regularly? A: The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans were developed and issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This serves as the master document to provide guidance on the benefits of physical activity (in addition to a healthy … Read More

Thorough Preparation Is Key for Knee Replacement

Apr 25, 2023 · Dawn Bialy · Aging & Independence

If you have a total knee replacement (TKR) this year, you’ll have plenty of company: Nearly 800,000 TKRs are performed annually in the United States, and this number will continue to grow as the population ages. Pain and limited mobility caused by osteoarthritis (OA) are the most common reasons for … Read More

Take the Plunge and Exercise in Water

Apr 25, 2023 · Kate Brophy · Aging & Independence

Water is a great exercise environment if you’re an older adult. Not only does exercising in water provide you with a cardiovascular workout that burns fat—it also counts as muscle-building resistance exercise, since water is more difficult to move in than air. Supportive Environment “Chest-deep water provides support to almost … Read More

Exercise May Be More Effective Than Medicines to Manage Mental Health

Apr 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

[caption id="attachment_144785" align="alignleft" width="300"] © RoxiRosita | Getty Images[/caption] A review of studies involving more than 128,000 people found that physical activity is not only beneficial for improving symptoms of depression and anxiety, but that regular exercise may be 1.5 times more effective than counseling or medications for many people. … Read More

Ask the Doctor May 2023: OSTEOPOROSIS AND DEMENTIA

Apr 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Q: Is there a connection between osteoporosis and dementia? A: Several studies in recent years have demonstrated an association between the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis and a greater risk of dementia, but the reasons for the connection aren’t entirely clear. For post-menopausal women, who represent the vast majority of osteoporosis cases … Read More

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