You are never too old to start! Ask today’s senior citizens about retirement and they’ll tell you they haven’t retired. They’ve rewired! The senior citizens of the 21st century are healthier and more active than ever. In addition to leisure activities, the modern definition of retirement now includes such things as starting a new business, working part-time in a previously held position, consulting, volunteering and mentoring.
So, what’s the key to a healthy retirement? Exercise! A consistent exercise routine can help you control your weight, improve your overall health and reverse the effects of aging. Before starting any exercise regime, it’s important to check with your doctor. This is especially true if you are being treated for a medical condition or injury. Once you get the go-ahead to get moving, start with something easy like walking for a short distance or gardening. But don’t be a weekend warrior and overdo it! If you end up with sore muscles and joints from the very beginning, you’ll likely not want to continue with an exercise program.
If spending more time outdoors in the nice weather, don’t forget to dress appropriately. It’s best to wear layers of clothing, so that you can remove a sweater or jacket if it gets too hot. Sunscreen is a must, as are sunglasses and a broad-rimmed hat. Always bring some water to sip along the way, and while you’re at it, bring a friend. Nothing provides more motivation to exercise on a routine basis than the buddy-system. If weather is an issue, try taking a walk around the local mall. Many malls open their doors before the stores even open. What a great way to take in a little exercise… and a little window shopping at the same time. But most importantly, be sure to wear the appropriate footwear. If you’re over 65, you’ve likely travelled more than 160,000 kilometres on your feet. That’s a lot of distance! If the tires wear out on your car, you can simply trade them in for a new set. Not so with your feet. If you want to get the maximum mileage, you have to protect them from the road.
Many seniors purchase walking shoes without assistance from an expert. Giving in to human nature, they often purchase less expensive, softer shoes at a retail store. This is especially true for those folks who are experiencing foot pain. They believe the softer the shoe, the better for their condition. What they don’t know, is that a soft shoe can actually compound their troubles. Over time, soft shoes start to disintegrate and will often mould to the shape of their foot. This break-down in materials can cause foot pain, increase existing pain, as well as contribute to imbalance.
A BioPed Pedorthist can help you find the right shoe for your level of activity, whether you have a foot condition to contend with or are just looking for a comfortable pair of shoes. If you are having trouble with your balance, a Pedorthist can also recommend what’s considered to be Stabilizing Footwear. Such footwear will help with walking and exercising and has also been credited with helping to reduce falls.
Most off-the-shelf footwear from BioPed Centres can be modified for your foot shape and / or condition. If you are bothered by a bunion, shoes can be stretched to accommodate for the bulge. If swollen ankles are a concern, the Pedorthist can open up the heel counter and rebuild it with softer materials.
At BioPed Footcare Centres, we believe in an active lifestyle at any age. If you suffer from a foot ailment, our Board Certified Pedorthists stand ready to evaluate your condition, and if appropriate, can manufacture an orthotic to relieve painful symptoms. Most available footwear costs no more than a good pair of running shoes. What a small price to pay to partake in your favourite sport or hobby… to participate in the rest of your life!