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A Healthy Lifestyle For The Elderly

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - There is a very interesting report from the University of Toronto which is stressing that "routine strength and balance training" should be made a priority for the elderly and their caregivers. Two doctors from the university have gone as far as to say it is a call to action.

Physicians must prioritize "fall prevention", but if seniors don't move around enough to maintain their strength, their immobility causes pressure ulcers, lack of self-care, depression, and significantly poor quality of life. All those are as severe a risk factor for death as a fall.

I think studies like this are very important because they emphasize important lifestyle measures that can make a real difference.

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