Age and health factors unpacked for Rand Aid residents

While speaking to residents of Elphin Lodge, a biokineticist raised the question of whether or not their biological age matched their actual age.

Julia Wright, assisted by fellow biokineticist Masana Ndlovu, unpacked active ageing for the residents of the Rand Aid-run retirement village on January 25.

They explained ageing could be viewed in two ways.

The chronological age, when you were born, is a set date and cannot be changed and biological age defines how well, able, strong and independent a person is.

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“As an adult, and especially as an older adult, your biological age becomes much more important, and your chronological age means very little,” explained Julia.

They explained that how you age is complicated and affected by many variables, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and chronic conditions.

“The one thing that will accelerate the ageing process is inactivity,” Julia emphasised.

All adults, regardless of age, should do a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
This equals 30 minutes five days a week.

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These 30 minutes can further be broken down into 3×10-minute sessions, but no shorter than 10 minutes at a time.

“You should be able to feel your breathing rate increase, start feeling warmer and you should be able to talk but not hold an easy conversation,” said Julia.

“If you are working out at this level, your body will be forced to adapt and improve.”

The biokineticists explained a well-balanced exercise programme includes cardiovascular, flexibility, strength and balance components.

“Biokineticists are exercise specialists who use scientifically based, individualised exercise and physical activity programmes to treat various medical conditions.

“We are here to guide you through what can be a daunting process of starting to exercise in a safe and caring manner,” said Julia.

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She said it was important to take note that everybody was different, everyone should listen to their bodies and gradually progress into exercise programmes.

“If you have pre-existing medical conditions, it is important that your doctor or biokineticist are screening you before embarking on an exercise programme to reduce your risk of suffering from a cardiac event, or other adverse event,” said Julia.

Email info@jwbio.co.za for more information.