Why stand more? The research is clear. Too much sitting is linked to a greater risk of heart diseases, and problems with mobility and physical function.

 

In 2016, the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics made activity suggestions for people living in retirement homes. The first was to use strategies for breaking up the sitting time of older adults. The second was to use simple approaches to encourage people to stand and move more during the day. The Stand When You Can toolkit will help achieve these two goals.

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We made the plan with feedback from both residents and staff at retirement residences. In 2019, we tried some of these activities in two residences in Alberta to help improve the plan. Based on the success of that study, we are happy to present the Stand When You Can Toolkit! The tool kit includes activities and resources to encourage people get up and move more throughout the day. It can also be used by staff and family members helping their loved ones move more and sit less.

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The “Stand When You Can Toolkit” is a resource that will help older adults to increase their daily movement and improve their health. It can be used in retirement communities and assisted living residences across Canada, and the world.