Prevent Falls and Balance Issues by Playing Ping Pong
Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among people 65 and older. Elderly patients are three times as likely to die following a ground-level fall compared to adults younger than 70. Roughly, 9,500 deaths in older Americans are associated with falls (and lack of balance) each year. Among people aged 65-69, one out of every 200 falls results in a hip fracture, say the experts. But falls are preventable!
Older people are more likely to break bones in falls because many seniors have porous, fragile bones due to osteoporosis. Additionally, seniors are more likely to have complications from surgeries and then sedation and trauma to the body make recovery even more risky, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Playing Ping Pong Boosts Balance in Seniors
Ping pong is the ultimate no-impact sport for all ages including Baby Boomers, kids, seniors and anyone who has been sedentary — and stuck at home — during the pandemic. Ping pong is especially beneficial for people who are suffering from an unsteady gait, frailty and muscle weakness.
Many health conditions cause dizzying side effects, so talk to your doctor if you have any of these issues:
Diabetes
Heart disease
Many medications
Thyroid issues
Nerve pain
Parkinson’s disease [LINK OUR NEW BLOG]
Arthritis and joint issues
Functional foot problems
Postural hypertension (dizziness)
Home hazards (floor clutter, for example)
Several ping pong participant studies found that the ball speed during ping pong play, including ball projection and airborne spins, result in sharpened mental acuity, concentration and alertness. Ping pong also improved overall strength and flexibility, which helped the seniors remain steadier on their feet. Maybe the best part of all? Table tennis is fun for every age group and fitness level.
PING PONG FOR GOOD (PPG) is a philanthropic campaign designed to educate and motivate the public about the surprising benefits (physical, mental and social) of playing ping pong. We’ve teamed with healthcare organizations, such as PingPong for Parkinson's, to help make a greater impact on people at risk of falling and hurting themselves.
Other ping pong resources
The American Parkinson Disease Association (Webinar)