How To Stay Independent As You Age

I started Body Motion Physical Therapy after working with women in their 60s and 70s in nursing homes who were incontinent but also had joint issues, making mobility difficult for them. The combination of the two led to bladder infections and pressure sores that commonly cause extreme health issues. Many of those women had been struggling with some form of incontinence and joint pain that stemmed from their pregnancies and they tolerated it throughout their lives, believing that it was normal. Because of this lack of care postpartum, it affected their quality of life for decades, leading to an unfortunate end.

Seeing those individuals struggling lit a passion in me to change the standard of care for women postpartum because no one deserves to live a life with chronic pain and incontinence. I started Body Motion Physical Therapy and wrote a book “Restore Your Body After Kids: The Secret To Avoid Peeing Your Pants And Achy Joints As You Age” to share this information with as many people as possible and make the change I wanted to see.

The 2 Keys To Staying Independent As You Age;

Eliminate Any Pelvic Floor Issues Before Menopause If Possible

40% of women aged 55 and up experience incontinence

The most common pelvic floor dysfunction is incontinence, which is leaking urine or feces. As we age, it is kind of accepted that we will lose control of bladder and bowel functions, but this acceptance has led to a loss of independence. Once we become that incontinent and rely on diapers, the cascade of issues ensues. Bladder infections, pressure sores, and bed sores are prevalent among the elderly and can cause fatal health complications. Working with a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist to address pelvic floor dysfunction, restore core function, and prevent issues from worsening is the #1 thing to do to stay independent as you age. The core function also supports the joints and reduces the strain on them.

Prioritize Muscle and Joint Health

As I mentioned, the women I worked with were limited in their mobility because of joint issues and previous injuries, surgeries, and injections. By prioritizing muscle mass, you protect your joints. By healing your pelvic floor, you maintain your core strength, which in combination helps you avoid joint issues by reducing the strain on the knees and hips.

1 in 5 women will be diagnosed with osteoporosis after the age of 50