Why carers need to stay strong – for life!
In our last article, I wrote about why staying physically strong and active throughout life is important. But it’s not just crucial for your quality of life.
Many of us are carers. We’re caring for our children, our partners, and often for our ageing parents. The so-called ‘caring professions’ – jobs in aged care, childcare, and medical environments – have grown exponentially. And it’s women who dominate these areas of work. According to international data, 88% of personal care workers are women.
The importance of staying strong to take good care of others
Thanks to modern medicine, good nutrition, and a focus on keeping active, Australians live longer. Aussies are number 5 in the top 10 OECD countries regarding life expectancy. On average, women in Australia reach their 83rd birthday and men their 80th. Of course, it’s great to live a long life. But we also want to live a long HEALTHY life.
So, it’s reassuring to know that 80% of chronic diseases of ageing are preventable. *
While it can be immensely satisfying, no doubt caring for others can take its toll on our physical and mental health. This can be a real problem for people caring for elderly parents.
Carers for older people are often middle-aged and very likely dealing with their health issues. And while they’re doing a great job of caring for elderly relatives, they tend to ignore their health and wellbeing. If your body isn’t as strong as it can be, sustaining an injury is easy. This is especially true if you need to lift somebody due to their incapacity.
Regular exercise is part of your ‘armour’ against potential injury.
Pilates builds physical strength – and personal confidence – for carers
I’ve always admired how my parents have stayed active. Their independence, enthusiasm and energy have always inspired me. Living in Europe and being close to some amazing ski fields, they were passionate skiers right into their 80s.
Unfortunately, their skiing days are over now. But I firmly believe that by staying strong and physically active all those years, they’ve been able to manage life pretty well.
Seeing how my parents have managed has inspired me to look after myself. And because I love to help others, it led me to my Pilates career. I can’t tell you my joy in seeing people build strength and flexibility over time.
And not just physical strength transforms the people who attend my classes. As their bodies become stronger and more flexible, I often see them gain confidence. They feel less vulnerable as they go about their day. There’s a real spring in their step.
Now that’s the power of Pilates – and of the human spirit. (I’ll repeat it… I LOVE MY JOB!)
Professor Cassandra Szoeke (2021) Secrets of Women’s Healthy Ageing