Tai Chi Classes Provide a Host of Benefits for Vero Beach Seniors
10-29-2009
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Vero Beach, Fla., October 29, 2009 - With an estimated annual cost of $2.9 billion and a 12-month mortality rate of almost 20 percent, hip fractures are a significant concern for an aging population. But The Lakes at Pointe West, a senior living community in Vero Beach, Fla., recently introduced an innovative Tai Chi wellness program designed to improve balance, reduce falls and alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis.
According to a study conducted by the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC), more than 90 percent of hip fractures among adults ages 65 and older are caused by falls. Studies have also consistently shown the most effective way to prevent fall-related injuries, including hip fractures, is to combine exercise with other fall prevention strategies. Tai Chi exercises are thought to be particularly effective because they focus specifically on lower-body strength and balance.
The Lakes at Ponte West is one of 10 communities owned and operated by Senior Living Communities in Charlotte, N.C, which will implement the Tai Chi classes. The Lakes Wellness Coordinator Dawn Lash, along with other Senior Living Communities wellness coordinators, completed a Tai Chi certification course in July designed by Dr. Paul Lam of Australia.
Lam's "Tai Chi for Arthritis" course emphasizes the "Sun" style of Tai Chi characterized by deliberate, low-impact motions that increase mobility, increase strength and promote better balance.
Lash continues to notice improvements in residents participating in the new class.
"From improving balance and overall strength to reducing arthritic symptoms, the benefits of our Tai Chi class are unlimited," Lash said. "Residents actively participating in the class are consistently showing marked improvement."
The Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that exercise can also help boost immunity and protect against shingles. Other studies have linked Tai Chi to health improvements in victims of heart disease, hypertension, Parkinson’s disease, stroke and sleep deprivation.
About The Lakes at Pointe West
Located in the quaint seaside town of Vero Beach, The Lakes at Pointe West offers all the amenities of true luxury living...daily fine dining, maintenance-free living, an innovative wellness program and the security of knowing healthcare is only a push button away. The beautifully landscaped 40-acre community is nestled safely outside of the area's hurricane evacuation zone and backs up conveniently to The Club at Point West private equity Golf Club. Balanced with 98 single-family cottages and lots, 120 condominium-style villas, 24 assisted-living apartments, and 24 memory-care apartments, members of The Lakes at Pointe West enjoy the very best in care-free living in an environment well suited for their needs today as well as the future. Members enjoy their own gracious clubhouse with country-club style dining as well as membership with the Club at Pointe West which features a championship 18-hole golf course. Those who chose a cottage home also receive their own personal golf cart. Future plans for the campus include a skilled-nursing center, a Wellness Center, and an additional assisted living building.
For more information on The Lakes at Pointe West, please visit www.pointe-west.com or call 772-299-7916.
About Senior Living Communities
Senior Living Communities, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, owns and operates ten luxury retirement communities in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. Nestled within the fabric of charming, traditional neighborhood settings, Senior Living Communities allow residents to live life to the fullest through maintenance -free living, outstanding amenities, great dining and onsite healthcare. Communities are carefully planned with residents' current and future needs in mind and most include single-family homes, condominiums, assisted-living, Alzheimer's care units, along with grand Clubhouses and Wellness Centers. Senior Living Communities has also partnered with Wake Forest University to create an exceptional wellness program whose goal is to improve residents' quality and length of life. Senior Living Communities allows its residents to Live Long, Live Well, Live! For more information on Senior Living Communities, please visit www.Senior-Living-Communities.com.
