10 Things Your PT Wants You To Know About Aging Like a Rock Star

Shanda McNew, MPT - President PRO PT

While it’s true we can't stop time, growing older may not deserve its bad wrap. There is no reason that aging can’t be a journey full of adventure and opportunities to live life to the fullest. All you need is proper guidance, proactive steps, and a positive attitude. Here are 10 things physical therapists want you to know to age well:

1. Chronic pain doesn't have to be the boss of you.

There is help without prescriptions. PT-supervised exercise, mobility, and pain management treatment plans can ease discomfort with activity.

2. You may not need surgery or medication for low back or knee pain.

Low back and knee pain are often overtreated with surgery and medications; physical therapy can be an effective alternative—and with less risk.

3. Staying active doesn’t have to feel like exercise.

Exercise should be fun and not feel like a chore! Choose activities you enjoy and look forward to each day.

4. Exercise lowers your risk of diabetes and other chronic conditions.

Regular physical activity can benefit your physical, mental, and social health, and can improve many conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and depression.

5. Deep down in your heart - your body needs exercise.

Heart disease is the number 1 cause of death in the US and exercise is one of the top ways to prevent it.

6. Stay strong - you’ll feel it in your bones.

Strength training and exercises that keep you on your feet are key to help you maintain critical muscle, improve bone strength, and avoid fractures.

7. Stay balanced - falls are preventable.

Falling is not a normal part of aging. A program of balance exercises and elimination of dangerous obstacles in your home will prevent falls and keep you living independently.

8. Surprises are overrated when it comes to your health.

Make regular appointments with your physician and stay up on all recommended screenings. Finding small issues early keeps them from becoming big issues later on.

9. Stay engaged - your brain needs activity.

Active people are less likely to develop memory problems. Regular contact with friends, family, and the community prevents cognitive decline that can jeopardize independence.

10. Keep moving - don’t retire to the couch!

Sitting and inactivity are the biggest predictors of functional decline as we age and functional decline is the biggest predictor of long term care placement. Staying active helps ensure you stay in your own home as long as you’d like.

Following these tips will allow you to age like a rockstar and on your own terms. Choose healthy and active to live your best life. You can do it. . . your healthcare team can help.