Joanie Koplos does a good job of trying to cover health issues as they relate to Sun City residents. I would like to add some info that may help residents when just moving about. According to the medical experts I’ve spoken with, when you step forward put your left heel down first, then follow up with a rightfoot forward step. Apparently, this is what the military teaches recruits when they are learning to march. The second tip also comes from them. Always keep you core body weight above your feet. No stepping to the left or right when your feet are pointing forward. Pivot when you change directions. You’ve seen this when you see soldiers guarding a military memorial sight. The soldier moves horizontally, then stops. He turns or pivots and his body is above his feet as he goes in a new direction.
Yes, I know shoes with treads of varying depth are supposed to help prevent slips and subsequent falls. Yeah, right. They cause you to stop short and as you stub your foot, down you go. Leather soles are very difficult to find and you need move differently. Sure. Walking gaits are extremely difficult to change when dealing with two feet have walked everywhere for 60 to 80 years. Many residents can barely lift a foot up even an inch or two so they need to be equipped with ancillary devices such as canes or walkers. With physical therapy some can revise their walk.
Maybe this will help some.
Susan-Marie Kelly
Huntley resident
