A Harvard Health Publishing report from back in 2011 said “one out of three senior citizens suffers at least one fall during the course of a year.”
I know you’re too young to be the one out of three.
But someone you know might be that particular one out of three. So, if you care about their well-being, I suggest you keep reading to see what you can do to help.
That same Harvard report included a little bit of interesting and encouraging information about music and movement. Fortunately I don’t have to be concerned with this for at least another few seconds. But I’m a concerned citizen, so that makes me interested.
Evidently the connection between music and movement isn’t all in your head.
I’ve already shared information about how music, and even the vibrations from it, can do amazing things. Especially for your mental well-being. But better mental and emotional health aren’t the only benefits of more music in your life. It might also keep you from falling.
According to the Harvard report, there was a study of “134 men and women 65 and older who were at risk of falling.” And keep in mind, these were people who didn’t have any major issues with walking. Half the volunteers were taught how to walk and move to the rhythm of songs. And the other half went through their regular routines.
After only six months the music movers could move around better and had better balance than the people who hadn’t changed their routines. And apparently the music group fell 54% fewer times.
So, the tough truth is that there were still some falling.
But a lot less than the more sedentary group. And a side benefit of music and movement was that it apparently improved the mobility of people dealing with Parkinson’s disease.
I’m a lifelong musician. So I love to learn about the hidden (and potential) benefits to listening to, playing, and moving around to music. But it’s sad how the researchers publish studies and reports that repeatedly say things like:
- “We’re not sure why this is happening?”
- “Science is only scratching the surface on how this could occur.”
- “Did our evolutionary ancestors know about dancing and health?”
Music is like the rest of human existence. It’s part of an amazingly complex design from an infinitely brilliant Designer. And If that’s not true, then I’m just a big fool who might be that one out of three who’s gonna fall down any minute.
But if it IS true (and it is)…
I’ll be dancing and singing forever
In the place where all music began.
And even with a crown, I’m never falling down.
Trusting God is in my masterplan.
Let’s get to know each other better and stay connected. Join the growing body of believers who signed up for the FunderFlash Journal. And receive daily, delightful dashes of salt and flashes of light from the power of God’s love.
Stay tuned…
