KEEP SKIPPING
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KEEP SKIPPING -
REJECT THE MIDDLE-AGE “GETTING TOO OLD FOR THIS” MINDSET
Stream microbursts into your daily routine - from sitting to skipping and in between!
new book launch on amazon
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new book launch on amazon -
Written by Marian F. Perillo
I have had the unique experience of working with school children and adults in nursing homes and home health within the same day.
The stark contrast caused me to reconsider what is “child-like” in my aging journey and what I observed as avoidance patterns attributing challenging movements solely to aging— vs. lack of practice.
I decided to work on a strategy to stop my procrastination and be open to revisiting activities I had not done since childhood. I then developed a “move groove” of mini moves, microbursts, and fun “flip-switch” actions —specific to my immediate environment. I found this approach beneficial in keeping me motivated and in gear throughout the day.
Keep Skipping! is your guide to active aging— linking brief stationary or dynamic movements within your routine— to jump-start your conditioning.
Marian F. Perillo / Physical Therapist
Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS)
Executive Certificate Home Modification (ECHM)
Meet Marian
I am a physical therapist with over 40 years of experience providing patient care in hospitals, school systems, outpatient clinics, psychiatric facilities, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
More than an “exercise book,” I share stories of former patients and the effect of disability on the home front.
I also discuss how recognizing one’s attitude and priorities affects healthspan and quality of life – individually and for those we love. Additionally, the benefits of home modifications and adaptive equipment are promoted.
A plan for active aging or a “Renewable Mobility Initiative”—starting with basic movements and your ability level—is encouraged to maintain one’s functioning approaching the senior years.
Keep Skipping!
Challenge YOur attitude about aging
Most of us cannot afford to “take it easy” as we age.
Given the exploding aging population and overloaded healthcare system, the better we care for ourselves, the less someone else will need to take care of us.
The impact of prolonged sitting and a sedentary lifestyle- further affected by the overuse of our phones- has developed a “Sitting, Scrolling, and Strolling” society impacting mental, physiological, and musculoskeletal functioning.
Increasing our activity level improves our healthspan and empowers us to lead more fulfilling lives.
As a 70-year-old woman with 48 years in physical therapy practice, I can attest to the benefits of inserting small, inconspicuous mini moves and brief microbursts to decrease inertia. Moreover, participating in enjoyable multi-component activities —encompassing elements of flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, and aerobics—is essential, enhances brain function, and increases the incentive to stay active.
Therefore, Instead of just “taking it easy” as we age, I propose the development of a “Renewable Mobility Initiative,” as described in the last chapter of the book entitled ”A Plan, Perseverance, and Purpose.”
More than an action, “Keep Skipping” is a mind-shift from the “too old for this” mindset to one open to possibilities that encourage you to move smarter, quicker, and even higher!
Choose to cross that bridge!
For those unable to run, jump, or skip- rebounding is an inclusive and accessible movement opportunity for many with various disabilities and diagnoses. Additional options include using a support bar when standing or bouncing while sitting or on hands and knees.
Most people with different abilities can move better by embedding a move-link formula of intentional mini-moves and microbursts specific to them as stepping stones to reduce deconditioning and generalized muscle weakness.
Knowing the importance of decisive action steps - such as inserting increased microbursts of walking intensity- is part of the “move smarter, move quicker” attitude. Establishing priorities and “SMART” goals is essential.
“It’s hard to be down when you’re bouncing up!”
