Originally published July 11 2005
Article shows how increase in older workforce doesn't have to mean increase in work injuries
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
More Americans over 55 are staying in the workforce; a trend that could lead to an increased number of workplace injuries related to aging bodies, but eMaxHealth.com offers tips to avoid this perilous trend.
This means more experienced workers in the field, but it can also mean more workplace injuries related to our bodies' natural aging process.
By being aware of the physical changes of aging and workplace risk factors then taking steps to prevent injury, our valuable older workers can minimize injuries as they approach retirement.
"With education and services within Ageonomics (TM) we can use ergonomics, meaning fitting the job to the worker, to address those factors specific to the aging population," says Bade.
"To help prevent aggravation of arthritis, it's important to pad equipment, so it does not press on sore joints, and so that it is not so small to pinch or grasp," says Bade.
The six most common ergonomic risk factors include: awkward postures, repetitive motion, sustained postures, excessive force contact stress on soft tissue, vibration and working in extreme temperatures.
If you find yourself reaching, twisting or bending your back, neck and wrists, or holding fixed positions for a prolonged period of time, reorganize your work environment to allow for a variety of comfortable postures.
If you exert a lot of physical effort to perform a task try dividing the load to be lifted into smaller portions, use equipment like carts to help move materials, and try to get help when needed.
Those working in more labor intensive jobs are not the only ones who need to pay attention to work-related injuries.
For example, leaning forward in a chair while typing or reading as well as bending, twisting and reaching for work materials can put stress on the hands, back, neck and shoulders.
Bade recommends that people using the keyboard position themselves and equipment so they type near elbow height with their wrists straight to help reduce strain.
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