Mobility is the joy of moving freely and easily. Healthy muscles, bones and joints allow us to perform all types of movements – from everyday tasks to enjoying our favourite hobbies.
As we age, and yes we are constantly ageing(one of the things we cannot control), we need to be aware of how we are moving or not moving.
Mobility is not just for the gyms junkie or exerciser. It is a part of everyone’s life and we all need to be made aware of how to stay mobile in order to keep moving efficiently for longer.
That is not to say if you are not mobile your future is dim, but improved mobility will enhance your ability to move and enjoy your day to day activities with fewer limitations and reliance on other people.
For example, your hips and shoulder joints both have a very large range of motion, but if you do not perform any mobility activities on a regular basis over time daily activities such as reaching to change a light globe or putting away an object in a cupboard might be more difficult die to your reach being limited due to poor mobility.
Further still, bending down to also put away objects might be made more difficult with poor mobility.
Mobility training can be done with flexibility and stretching training, but can and should also be done on it’s own. We really should begin from 28-30 years old. Don’t wait till it’s too late.
Some of the first visible signs of ageing may be changes to posture and gait, as well as fatigue and general weakness doing everyday tasks. As previously stated, people may notice an impact on mobility when engaging in activities such as walking. Ageing affects muscle mass and strength, bone density, and can make joints stiffer and less flexible due to reduction of cartilage thickness1.
As we age, muscles, bones and joints undergo physiological changes that affect mobility and which can ultimately impact our independence. Daily physical activity combined with weight management and a healthy balanced diet that includes proper intake of protein, vitamin D and C, and calcium can support the health of your muscle, bones and joints and keep you moving. Embrace the allies of positive ageing.
Importance of muscle health: The age-related loss of muscle may decrease mobility. Loss of muscle mass can begin as early as 30 years2and it can become more prominent from the age of 50 onwards. The rate of muscle loss is influenced by the amount of regular physical activity people do throughout their lives. An injury or temporary illness can also affect the amount of skeletal muscle mass. Daily consumption of protein contributes to healthy muscle mass.
Importance of bone health: Bone health is important at any age. The reduction in bone density that is common in older age makes bones weaker which in turn may lead to increased risk of fractures. Good nutrition including the necessary amounts of vitamins and minerals like Calcium and Vitamin D combined with exercise can help maintain good bone health during later stages of life.
Importance of joint health: Joints become more vulnerable to damages as the cartilage that lines them becomes thinner and the lubricating (synovial) fluid is reduced as we age. This means that joint surfaces aren’t able to slide as smoothly over one another, causing discomfort. Joints become stiffer as the ligaments and tendons become more rigid and muscle tone and bone strength is reduced. These changes make physical tasks more and more difficult.
Key tips to maintain mobility
A decrease in mobility can have a significant impact on a person’s wellbeing especially when it interferes with one’s ability to enjoy favorite hobbies, social outings and to remain independent. Key ways of tackling the issue include:
- Good nutrition – consume the daily recommended amount of protein – essential for maintenance of muscle mass and strength. Studies3, 4, 5, 6 show that older adults currently do not consume enough protein. Ensure proper intake of micronutrients such as vitamins (e.g. C and D) and minerals (e.g. calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc).
- Regular physical activity – including weight / resistance training to help maintain muscle mass
- Weight management – maintain the optimal weight for your height and age
1. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Orthoinfo. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/main.cfm
3. Bauer J et al. Evidence-Based Recommendations for Optimal Dietary Protein Intake in Older People: A Position Paper From the PROT-AGE Study Group. J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2013;14(8):542-559.
4. Rousset S, et al. Daily protein intakes and eating patterns in young and elderly French. Br J Nutr 2003; 90:1107-1115.
5. Fulgoni VL 3rd. Current protein intake in America: Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2003-2004. Am J Clin Nutr 2008; 87:1554S-1557S
6. Paddon-Jones D et al. Role of dietary protein in the sarcopenia of aging. Am J Clin Nutr 2008; 87(suppl):1562S– 1566S