Proprioception could be the cause of falls and lack of balance as we age

About the Author;

Craig Nunns, General Manager of Healthcare & Mobility Africa (HCMA), has been an integral part of Adjust4Sleep since its inception. With decades of experience in mobility solutions, Craig has helped shape the company into a leader in the adjustable bed market.

Table of Contents
Propriception, elderly

Have you ever wondered how your body knows where it is in space, even with your eyes closed? That’s thanks to proprioception—a crucial sensory ability that helps us move, balance, and function seamlessly in our daily lives. How does proprioception work?  Stand on one leg and close your eyes.  Can you feel the muscles in your leg and foot twitching to maintain your balance?  That is the effect of proprioception.  As we get older, the brain struggles to interpret the body’s position in space and send signals to muscles which helps you to balance.   For those with mobility challenges or age-related conditions, maintaining proprioception becomes increasingly important and is the main cause of the increased risk of falling as one gets older.  Slips and falls, especially those leading to hospital admission, are linked to higher mortality rates due to secondary infections and complications. Let’s explore how to prevent proprioceptive decline and how mobility aids can support proprioception and improve quality of life.

What is Proprioception?

Proprioception is often referred to as the “sixth sense.” It’s the body’s innate ability to sense its position, movement, and equilibrium. This complex process relies on receptors in your muscles, joints, and skin that send information to your brain. Proprioception enables tasks such as walking without looking at your feet, balancing on uneven surfaces, or even typing without watching your hands.

However, conditions like arthritis, neurological disorders, ageing, or injury can impair proprioception, leading to unsteadiness, difficulty in movement, or even falls. Mobility aids can be vital in supporting these individuals by enhancing stability, comfort, and ease of movement.

How do you decrease proprioceptive decline?

The good news is you can help reduce the decline of proprioception by doing simple exercises* a few days a week.

  1. Standing on one leg

Standing on one leg helps train the body and brain to send signals to the muscles that help proprioception.  You can stand on one leg for between 10 seconds and a minute for three sets and if that becomes too easy, closing your eyes will add to the difficulty and effectiveness.

A nice, easy exercise that not only helps with proprioception but also improves core and back muscle strength and your spine’s stability. 

bIRD DOG EXERCISE

Instead of standing and lunging forward before going back into the original standing position, try lunging backwards.  As you cannot see where your foot is placed, the brain relies predominantly on proprioception to maintain balance.

Reverse Lunge
  • Jumping

Jumping on a small trampoline is also a great exercise for balance and proprioception

Mobility Aids Supporting those who suffer from declined proprioception

1. Adjust4Sleep Adjustable Bed

For individuals with limited mobility or sleep-related disorders, the Adjust4Sleep Adjustable Bed is a game-changer. This bed allows users to adjust the incline of their back and legs, providing ergonomic support that:

  • Enhances body awareness by relieving pressure points and aligning the body.
  • It improves circulation, which is essential for joint health and maintaining proprioceptive function.
  • Reduces the risk of falls when getting in and out of bed through its customizable height settings.
Adjustable bed

2. Willowbrook Riser Recliner

The Willowbrook Riser Recliner is designed to offer comfort and support while promoting independence. Its smooth reclining and rising mechanisms provide:

  • Assistance with standing up, reducing the strain on joints and muscles.
  • Enhanced stability during transitions, allowing users to maintain balance and control.
  • Aiding in proper posture is crucial for effective proprioceptive feedback.
Riser recliner

3. Aqualift Bathlift

Bathing can be a challenge for individuals with limited mobility, often requiring significant effort and balance. The Aqualift Bathlift provides a secure and dignified bathing solution by:

  • Offering stable, controlled lowering and raising in the bath, minimizing strain on joints and muscles.
  • Reducing anxiety and enhancing confidence, can positively impact proprioceptive abilities.
  • Ensuring a safe bathing experience, eliminating the fear of slipping.
aqualift bathlift

4. Pride Mobility Scooter

Mobility scooters like those from Pride Mobility are invaluable for individuals who face challenges walking long distances. These scooters:

  • Maintain independence by allowing users to navigate spaces comfortably and confidently.
  • Reduce physical strain, which can improve proprioceptive function by conserving energy for essential movements.
  • Provide stability on the go, ensuring users feel secure on various terrains.
mobility scooter

Enhancing Proprioception Through Mobility Aids

While mobility aids provide external support, they also encourage users to engage their proprioceptive systems actively. For example:

  • Adjustable beds and recliners help individuals find their centre of gravity during transitions.
  • Scooters and bathlifts offer opportunities to practice balance and coordination in safe environments.

Moreover, incorporating light exercises, stretching, and physical therapy alongside mobility aids can further boost proprioceptive health.

Proprioception is integral to maintaining independence and quality of life, especially for those with mobility challenges. With innovative solutions like the Adjust4Sleep Adjustable Bed, Willowbrook Riser Recliner, Aqualift Bathlift, and Pride Mobility Scooter, individuals can regain confidence, improve balance, and reduce the risk of falls. These aids support physical health and empower users to enjoy life with greater comfort and independence.

Invest in the right mobility aids today to take the first step toward a more stable, confident tomorrow!

*Before attempting any exercises, please consult your health practitioner

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