Mobility is defined as the ability to move or be moved freely and easily. There are a variety of reasons that a person’s mobility can be impeded. Injuries, illness, arthritis, balance problems and age are common causes of mobility problems. The purpose of this article is to look at the reasons why people have mobility problems.
It is common to meet people over the age of 65 that have mobility issues. This is often caused by a lack of strength and or power, illness, arthritis and balance problems. Age by itself in many instances is not the cause of mobility problems. Aside from illness and arthritis many older individuals lose their ability to be mobile due to a lack of strength and or power caused by being sedentary and inactive. Balance problems can be caused by a number of issues including being sedentary and inactive.
The human body is designed to move. Performing repetitive movements is the best way to maintain the ability to move. It is our central nervous system that is responsible for movement. The central nervous system is comprised of the brain and spinal cord. They are responsible for sending messages to the limbs in order to produce movement. If a person stops moving, they will eventually lose their ability to move in a coordinated manner.
The only way to maintain mobility or help improve mobility problems is to be active. All forms of exercise are recommended including cardiovascular, resistance and flexibility exercises. A person’s mobility issues can improve by performing cardiovascular and resistance training exercises. Cardiovascular training will help to improve aerobic conditioning and balance. Resistance training will help to increase strength, power and balance. Flexibility exercises will help provide the ability to move more easily.
It is recommended that all individuals check with their Doctor before starting an exercise program. A properly designed fitness program can help people that have mobility problems.