Mistake 7: Staring at Your Phone While Moving
Holding a smartphone in front of your face while you walk combines several harmful biomechanical mistakes into one dangerous habit. It forces your neck into a severe downward tilt, locks your arms in a static position, and completely ruins your spinal alignment. Beyond the structural damage, looking at a screen drastically increases your risk of tripping and falling.
According to the National Council on Aging, falls remain the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. A simple trip over an uneven sidewalk can result in a fractured hip, triggering a cascade of medical expenses and a permanent loss of independence.
Put your phone securely in your pocket for the duration of your walk. If you enjoy listening to audiobooks or podcasts while you exercise, connect a pair of earbuds and start the audio before you leave your driveway. Keep your hands free, your head up, and your attention on your environment.
This article about effective walking was the best I have ever read on the topic.
I walk 4 to 6 (15 minute walks) a day in all kinds of weather here in Ohio. I started doing this when I turned 60, I start my 83rd year this summer, never had any problems. Bad weather I walk at the mall. What should I prepare for at this age? Plus I take care of my wife 24/7, she’s unable to walk, fallen several times she’s a young 80, we’ve been married 60 years, she started falling 2 years ago and has never been able to walk since.
Neither of us use alcohol or tobacco and eat two meals each day coffee cake & cofee for bfast and a big lunch/dinner at 4:00 and maybe a desert at 7.
Should we add or subtract anything to keep us going into our 90’s.
This is wonderful that you have been consistently walking in short timeframes for many years. This is good in so many ways: moving body, increased heart rate several times a day, exposure to nature, social contacts with others, and change of scenery. Regarding your meals, several factors come into play: current heart health, current weight, bed time after last meal and snack and time of morning meal. Move your body after last meal or snack even in the house for blood sugar control. Can your wife do water exercises? Physical therapy at home to move legs and arms? Otherwise, why change if your current lifestyle is working for you. Seems like healthy choices. Stay social and keep moving your body.