(ABC) -- The holiday season is a time when so many of us visit parents and older relatives to share good times. Now, a new study warns to keep seniors healthy – keep them moving.
For older adults, falls represent a leading cause of hospital admissions and deaths.
A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that trying to prevent falls by limiting seniors’ movement and activity is a bad idea.
If seniors move around too little, immobility causes:
- Pressure ulcers
- Lack of self care
- Depression
- And poor quality of life
These can put elderly lives at risk as much as falls.
The authors urge routine strength and balance training for older adults.
Also, making possible falls less dangerous by:
- Lowering beds
- Padding floors
- And providing grip socks
Researchers say these steps will reduce hospitalizations from falls and could enhance the quality and length of life.
