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An active lifestyle is key to healthy ageing

SPONSORED STORY – Having an active lifestyle as a senior is often linked to a higher ability to maintain independence, which is why it’s widely recommended that seniors should aim for a minimum of 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise every week.

<p>One of the major reasons capable seniors stop exercising and maintaining an active lifestyle is the fear of falling, which actually increases the risk of an older person falling.[Source: Shutterstock]</p>

One of the major reasons capable seniors stop exercising and maintaining an active lifestyle is the fear of falling, which actually increases the risk of an older person falling.[Source: Shutterstock]

Common exercises such as dancing, swimming, gardening, golfing and even walking to improve strength, balance and flexibility are critical to the safety of a senior when living alone. 

International clinical trials have shown that one of the major reasons capable seniors stop exercising and maintaining an active lifestyle is the fear of falling.

Since they are neglecting exercise out of fear, there is an increased chance of having a fall because of their reduced fitness and mobility.

SOS Watch Business Development Manager, Abi Anderson, says this mentality by older Australians becomes a vicious cycle since they avoid exercise out of fear but in doing so, end up increasing the possibility of actually having a fall.

“As seniors grow older, they tend to stop doing things they are capable of doing because they are afraid of falling, that fear is stopping them from having an active lifestyle. That in turn actually leads to them having a higher risk of falling over,” explains Mr Anderson.

“Physical activity is an important component of living a healthy lifestyle, especially as you grow older. Regular activity and exercise helps in many ways, including fighting obesity, improving flexibility, keeping your bones strong, increasing daily stamina and decreasing the risk of chronic diseases, that could be heart or lung disease or diabetes.”

SOS Watch provides peace of mind and security through their SOS Watch and SOS Pendant, which both have a one-touch emergency response and can reduce the likelihood of being left on the floor for a long period of time.

Mr Anderson says that SOS Watch also gives psychological assurance to the individual that they are not alone and are able to continue living the life they want.

Many medical alarms now mimic features that came with a traditional medical alarm including connectivity to the house landline or base unit.

One of the biggest problems that comes with this is the inability to use the alarm outside a designated area. 

SOS Watch’s products work at home, in the community and even halfway across Australia. 

Not only do both devices connect independently with the mobile network, but the SOS Pendant offers other safety features including GPS, falls detection, as well as the ability for two-way communication through the device when in need of help. 

The benefits that come with using a medical alarm is the ability to continue living independently, feeling confident, and 24-hour access to prompt care. 

Mr Anderson says, “A quick response is critical during an emergency. A prolonged amount of time immobile on the floor after a fall is linked to a much higher risk of future health problems as a result of that fall.”

SOS Watch can offer assurance and security for older Australians so they can worry less about falls and continue to remain active and independent for longer.

To find out more about SOS Watch, visit their website.

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