More often than not, the most random things end up going viral online and leave people pulling their hair out over absolutely nothing – no we are not going to ask if you see a blue or gold dress!
One particular campaign caught our attention in recent months. The #Stand4Strength test initiated by the Abbott Family challenges you to take the 'stand-up test' to check if you are at risk of not being able to walk in your 70's & beyond.
Take the stand-up test now to see if you are at risk. This simple test was created to help healthy adults check if in the future they are at risk of not being able to walk, and to help adults, especially aged 40-60, take the necessary precautions.
Adapted from: https://stand4strength.vintedge.com/
Instructions:
Caution:
Our muscles gradually get weaker as we get older, thus making it more difficult for us to undertake daily activities from buying groceries to playing sports. In fact, research has shown that adults aged 40 and above could begin to lose up to 8% of muscle mass every decade!
Loss of muscle mass can lead to a vicious cycle of increased inactivity which leads to more muscle loss. This could expose older people to an increased risk of falls, loss of independence and even premature death.
In Singapore, about 1/3 of older people aged 60 and above has fallen more than once.
While declining muscle mass is a natural process of ageing, it should not be seen as a normal part of ageing.
Let’s start off by asking yourself 2 questions:
Not all is lost if you had difficulty performing the test. Lifestyle and nutritional changes for instance, can help to improve muscle and overall health.
Working with a physiotherapist on your strength, balance, and motor skills can also help you to increase confidence and remain independent.
Want to understand more? Contact us now to book a consultation.