Whether it is a 50-year-old woman looking forward to retirement, 65-year-old man that wants to reduce the medication he is taking or a 72-year-old woman that wants to go hiking at the Rocky Mountains with her grandkids – they all want independence. Some may have higher levels of independence than others but they intersect at the same idea.
That idea is to do what they want to do when they want to do it.
The key ability is to live longer and live with better quality of life. This opportunity to stay independent for years does not come by being sedentary. This freedom does not come from being complacent. Attaining and maintaining independence comes from a constant vigilance for a better quality of life – and acting on it.
An important part of how to give yourself the opportunity at longer lasting independence is improving the way you move. This improvement is not done by being part of a gentle program that treats you and your body as though as you are frail, without potential and should not be challenged. Instead, you deserve a program that is introduced in a way that meets you where you are now…and challenges you so you can strengthen that foundation of independence.
Use that person or group class that you attend as your supplement (think of vitamins). That program is a part of what you are doing to improve your quality of life. Thus, this program is not the only thing you are doing – but an important part.
In other words, in addition to that program/fitness professional that works with you individually or the group:
- Keep on playing.
- Keep on hiking.
- Keep on enjoying your dance class.
- Keep on getting outside, getting your hands dirty and gardening.
- Keep on planning exciting trips near and far…and physically prepare for them.
- Keep on golfing.
- Keep on being attentive to your health in other ways. (ie: eyesight and hearing checks, understanding medication side effects, managing chronic diseases)
- Keep on learning and being creative.
- Keep on going for walks with your partner, friends or neighbors.
You deserve a program that fits your needs, dreams and desires. Be vigilant about maintaining your independence and quality of life!
