Posture may not be the part of your health that you think the most about. But it’s incredibly important to your overall well-being, and becomes even more important the older that you get. If you’re curious about how your posture can impact your health, then you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find an overview covering the importance of good posture and a look at what you can do to improve yours.
There are several different ways in which your posture can impact your health as you age. First, as we age, we tend to lose some of our height. This is a result of the thinning out of the vertebrae and discs that cushion our back. But you can counteract this and maintain more of your height by taking care of your posture.
Additionally, older adults who have good posture also generally have better balance. This can significantly reduce your risks of falling, which is the number one cause of injury among older adults.
Studies have also shown that having good posture can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. When you maintain proper posture, your blood is able to flow freely throughout your body. If your posture falters, then blood flow can become restricted. This can cause hypertension, which is one of the leading risk factors for cardiac events.
Finally, good posture can also reduce your risk of osteoporosis. This is because when you have poor posture, your back muscles and ligaments need to work extra hard to keep you upright. Ultimately, this can cause muscle degeneration, which can lead to osteoporosis.
Exercise is the most effective way to improve your posture. More specifically, look into completing core exercises that strengthen your lower back. Adding strength in this area will make it easier for your body to support itself in the proper alignment.
Additionally, simply spending more time moving around during the day can help your posture. Doing so will help your muscles stretch out and remain limber, enabling them to support a healthier posture.
Working with a chiropractor can be another way to improve your posture. Many practitioners will help your body reset its posture so that you’re able to hold yourself in a healthier way without having to exert as much effort to do so.
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If your posture could use some work, then you may be interested in joining a gym, taking yoga classes, or working with a chiropractor. However, the costs of these services may limit your ability to utilize them. If you find yourself in this scenario, then you may want to consider using your Medicare health insurance to pay for the care you need.
Your exact options will vary based on the specific Medicare plan that you have. Some types of plans, such as Medicare Advantage plans, offer more coverage for these services than others.
You can learn more about your options by reaching out to a partnered licensed agent with Time for 65. Our agents are Medicare experts who can answer your most pressing coverage questions so that you can begin working towards a healthier posture now. Get in touch with one today by either filling out this form or giving us a call.
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