National Council on Aging Launches 'On the Move' Program to Improve Mobility in Older Adults
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) has introduced 'On the Move' (OTM), a 12-week, group-based program designed to enhance walking ability in older adults aged 65 and above. This initiative addresses the common issue of walking difficulty in this demographic, which can lead to increased risks of falls, loss of independence, and adverse health outcomes. Unlike many existing exercise programs, OTM specifically targets the timing and coordination crucial for effective walking by focusing on biomechanics and motor control. The program is delivered twice weekly by trained leaders, such as physical therapists or certified fitness instructors, and incorporates progressive stepping and walking exercises that align with the natural gait cycle. A clinical trial has demonstrated that OTM is more effective than traditional seated exercise in improving mobility and reducing the risk of falls among its participants. 
