As people get older:  It’s common for the spine to shorten.  This causes people to “shrink” very gradually, losing from one to four inches in height.  In some people, the upper spine also begins to curve, leading to a stooped posture.  Their muscles get smaller, especially if they don’t exercise.  This can make them feel weak and tired more easily.  In addition, if injured, older muscles take longer to heal.  The bones can get thinner and weaker, especially in women.  This puts elderly people at risk for broken bones.  If they do break a bone, it will take longer to heal.  Their joints become stiff which is especially noticeable after a night in bed.  This loss of flexibility causes movement to be slower and sometimes painful.  The cartilage in joints wears out over time.  This weakens the joints and causes arthritis. Aging & The Musculoskeletal System To Help Your Elderly Clients Prevent Problems With Their Muscles and Bones, You Should:  Assist them to exercise every day, even if it’s just a slow walk or a series of range of motion exercises.  (Only about one-third of elderly people get enough exercise.)  Encourage them to use assistive devices as needed for ambulation.  This includes canes, walkers, braces, and crutches.  Help them “loosen” their stiff muscles and joints by doing range of motion exercises.  In addition, make sure your clients change position every two hours.  (Assist them as necessary.)  Keep an eye out for times when your clients might need help.  For example, they may not have the strength needed to open a food jar or a medication container.  Or, their stiff joints may not bend to allow them to put the cap back on the toothpaste or to pick up a pen.  Be ready to assist them as needed.  Remember that elderly people move more slowly.  Allow plenty of time for them to complete tasks.  And be sure to build in some rest periods in between activities.    IN  THE KNOW PAGE 10 © 2000 In the Know, Inc. You know you’re getting older when you sit in a rocking chair and you can’t get it going! Remember...Watch For & Report:  Pain in limbs or joints or swollen joints  Weakness  Unsteady gait  Problems with ambulation  Falls