As the population ages at a rapid pace, the importance of mobility has become a hot topic. Mobility isn’t just about movement; it’s about maintaining physical stamina, strength, balance, and flexibility – the building blocks for healthy, active aging. Ignoring mobility can bring about a host of health problems for older adults, including an increased risk of falls, muscle loss, weakness, stiffness, pain, and susceptibility to musculoskeletal disorders (MSK).
Fortunately, older adults can prevent many of these issues by incorporating mobility training into their routine. Learn about the connection between mobility, health, and longevity, and discover a new digital solution that can help seniors improve their mobility in just 10 minutes.
Mobility is Having Its Moment
According to Google Trends, searches for “mobility” have been on the rise over the past five years, increasing by about 20%. For seniors, focusing on mobility is becoming even more important. After age 60, a combination of carrying excess weight and inactivity can significantly increase the risk of losing mobility.
With sedentary lifestyles, it’s no surprise that one-third to one-half of people 65 and older struggle with loss of mobility. The biggest worry with seniors who lose their mobility is that they have higher rates of disease, disability, hospitalization, and death.
The good news is that mobility training can make a big difference in seniors’ health and quality of life…and it’s never too late to start. Regular mobility exercises can help seniors stay more active, regulate blood pressure, improve circulation, keep joints and muscles flexible, and enhance balance, all of which keep seniors safer and more independent.
Preventing Falls through Mobility Training
Falling can be a big worry for seniors. Each year, 3 million elderly people end up in emergency rooms due to falls. According to the CDC, a senior suffers a fall every second of every day, making it the leading cause of injury and death in this age group.
Most falls are caused by a combination of risk factors, including a weak lower body and difficulties with walking and balance. However, through regular workouts aimed at improving mobility, seniors can improve their strength, balance, and coordination making accidents much less likely.
More Mobility, More Longevity
One of the most promising discoveries in mobility research is the connection between mobility and longevity. Studies have found that seniors who keep active and mobile tend to live longer and enjoy better health.
For example, a study tracking over 400,000 adults for 12 years found that those with better physical function, measured by walking speed and grip strength, had a 30% lower risk of dying during the study period. Another study identified strength, balance, and mobility as the best predictors of a long life. Furthermore, higher levels of both upper and lower-body muscle strength have been linked to a decreased risk of mortality.
New Digital AI – Powered Mobility Coaching in 10 Minutes
Aaptiv’s upcoming Mobility SmartCoach feature is a new AI-powered digital coaching feature designed to help people of all ages and fitness levels improve their mobility. Through the easy-to-use app, users can evaluate their current mobility based on movement assessments used by physical therapists. They’ll then get a personalized mobility exercise plan that takes just 10 minutes.
How It Works
- The plan starts with an 8-point full-body self-assessment that measures mobility in the hip, shoulder, and posterior chain — the muscle groups from the upper back to the calf muscles.
- These results provide a baseline measurement of mobility. Based on these results, the user gets a Mobility Score, Map, and Training Plan to follow.
- Every six weeks, the user repeats the 8-point mobility assessment and receives an updated Score, Map, and Training Plan.
Designed for Sedentary Seniors
According to Joseph Quinn, Vice President of Product Development at Aaptiv, “A lot of fitness apps are designed for people who are already fit, which can be intimidating for non-exercisers. This new coaching feature allows everyone, no matter their fitness level, to engage in safe movement that builds mobility.”
He explains that Aaptiv’s Mobility SmartCoach is built to welcome non-exercisers back to movement. “It can be challenging for sedentary seniors to take that first step in a fitness journey,” says Joseph. “We have an enormous bank of fundamental movements and ‘pre-beginner’ workouts for those new to exercise. SmartCoach helps sedentary seniors start to move and improve their mobility, beginning week one.”
Quick and Easy
The mobility exercises focus on strength, flexibility, coordination, posture, and body awareness – all without requiring any equipment. Just 10 minutes a day, a few times a week, can make a difference in helping seniors stay safe and healthy.
Prioritizing mobility training is critical for older adults looking to maintain their health and independence as they age. By incorporating regular mobility exercises into their routine, seniors can reduce the risk of falls, improve longevity, and enhance their quality of life. With Aaptiv’s Mobility SmartCoach, improving mobility has never been easier or more accessible.
Aaptiv Advantage
Aaptiv Advantage offers a cost-effective solution for health plans and their members, preempting potential future costs linked to physical therapy, surgery, or medication through the mobility training program and digital workouts. This approach eliminates the need for a separate musculoskeletal (MSK) solution. Moreover, Aaptiv Advantage boasts an easy-to-use platform that promotes consistent engagement and use. Through a simple app interface, users can explore a wide array of workouts and wellness resources, all readily available on their devices.
