Editor’s Note:
Aging is a natural process, but it needn’t be incapacitating. Did you know that more than 40 percent of Americans 75 years and older are entirely sedentary? These elders struggle to maintain their mobility, and as it wanes so does their independence—they develop increased reliance on caregivers for basic needs. Loss of independence can spiral into a loss of dignity and self-confidence, undermining their sense of self-worth. Mental disorders, such as depression, may arise with the realization they can no longer function at home or in society without the support of their families or others.
