Apparently, our cognitive 'executive function' or lack thereof is indicative of one's risk of a fall. There are many tests to determine the state of one's of executive function, but there are two in particular that are predictive of falls. If 'set shifting' which requires one to go back and forth between multiple tasks and 'response inhibition' which is the ability to suppress automatic reactions in favor of alternative, planned behaviors are low, a person has difficulty concentrating and thus increased risk of a fall.
In studying the home-based balance and strength retraining Otago Exercise Program, researchers discovered that an exercise program including balance and resistance training plus some walking reduced falls and improved executive function, particularly response inhibition. This is the first study to indicate that an exercise program designed to reduce falls can also improve cognitive function. Exercise is good for the brain and this proves it!
In Day 5 of my senior exercise video series, Take 5 for Maintenance, we do exercises that not only help maintain the shoulder and hip but also the brain! I encourage viewers to imagine they are drawing a sword, opening the refrigerator door, do some Dorothy clicks....all from the comfort of your chair.
Seated exercise routines don't have to be boring. Engage your visual senses with the spectacular view behind me and my Take 5 ladies, establish that mind-to-muscle connection that stimulates growth, and flex those brain muscles as you imagine yourself doing fun things all while reducing your risk of a fall.
Oh yeah, this is good.
The Fall Prevention Lady
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