Joy of life in old age: 85-year-old discovers the power of movement!

An 85-year-old from Cologne, Helga Niggenaber, is actively committed to her fitness and takes part in the “Fit for 100 gymnastics” in the community hall of the Thomaskirche on Neusser Wall. She received a new knee joint a year and a half ago and has since significantly increased her activities by doing gymnastics twice a week. Her training program includes exercises for arms, legs, balance and dexterity, supplemented by daily back exercises in bed and walks of up to 8 kilometers with a walker.

Niggenaber, who has been active throughout her life - from gymnastics to swimming and cycling - emphasizes the importance of exercise to avoid stiffness. She is aware of the health problems that many older people who no longer exercise have. In addition, she runs her own household, goes shopping and drives a car. In the gymnastics lessons she finds support from like-minded people, such as 88-year-old Hedy Cieslik, who cares for her husband who suffers from dementia and also emphasizes the importance of exercise and sport. The class includes exercises such as slalom walking, arm circles, squats and bicep curls, which Niggenaber completes while sitting and feels better afterwards.

Walking aids for seniors

In addition to the importance of exercise, the use of walking aids for seniors is also an important issue. An article from the AOK points out that mobile walking aids, also known as walkers, can provide practical support in everyday life. They are equipped with storage trays, shopping baskets or seats, which makes them particularly useful for seniors. While three-wheeled models are an advantage in tight spaces, four-wheeled versions offer more safety thanks to their stable construction and backstops.

Important tips for safe use of a rollator include, among other things, correct posture: Seniors should walk upright on the rollator and ensure that their body is between the handles when walking. The rule of thumb is that the grip height should be about two fingers' width above the wrist when the arms hang relaxed. In addition, the walking aid should not be pushed far forward to avoid falls, and the seat should only be used when the brakes are applied.