Kees is Defying the Rules of Aging: Working Hard to Stay Fit and Healthy at 77 & Choosing the Right Prosthesis.
As we age, it's natural to experience a decline in muscle strength. However, 77-year-old Kees van Opstal is making every effort to mitigate this by maintaining his physical strength and endurance, particularly when selecting the appropriate prosthesis for his fitness needs. "You need to choose a prosthesis that suits you and aligns with what you aim to achieve with it," states Kees.
Over the past five years, Kees has been using a Genium knee designed for more active individuals. "This prosthesis suited my lifestyle at the time; I was still actively playing tennis and skiing. However, as time has passed, I've become less active due to a combination of aging and physical issues stemming from my disability. For instance, my good leg is more susceptible to strain, so I must consider that. My Ottobock Genium was recently serviced for the final time, so I know I'll be due for a new prosthesis soon."
Choosing the lighter C-Leg
"My next prosthesis will most likely be an Ottobock C-Leg. It is also an MPK, electronic and computer-controlled, but less advanced with fewer features than the Ottobock Genium and, therefore, lighter, which is a great advantage for me, especially when keeping mobile. However, changing to a different prosthesis will mean that it will take time for my body and me to adjust and get used to it. Also, the C-Leg must be charged every night, while the Genium only needs to be charged once a week. That's also something to consider - I may need to set an alarm".
Including Crutches for balance and coordination
Kees notices other mobility declines as he gets older. Until recently, he walked almost exclusively using his cane, but now he increasingly grabs his elbow crutches for additional balance and support. "They are indispensable tools these days. I used to hopscotch often; those days are over as I no longer have the balance. My balance was not an issue when I was still skiing on one leg, which is how I learned and continued to do throughout my skiing. Recently, I noticed that I do not have as much confidence, especially when I am out at night, so I always take my crutches with me as they help me a lot."
Walking is hard work but worth it.
Walking is a fantastic form of exercise as it has a low impact and many health and mental benefits - known as Nature Therapy. Kees regularly (at least twice a week) walks a two-kilometer round trip to keep track of his fitness levels. "Walking is hard work for me. I'm not opposed to that, but walking with pleasure is something else. I am also always very aware of my prosthesis during a walk. Using my crutches makes me feel more confident and stable, using less energy." On vacation with his wife Ineke, the crutches always go with them. "We like to visit cities; thanks to the additional support from using crutches, I can go sightseeing and keep up steadily."
Staying fit and active at the gym
Kees also goes to the gym twice a week to maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and fitness. "At the gym, I use the equipment to focus on muscle maintenance and strength exercises. I know exactly what to do; I've been training for so long it becomes natural. It is never too late for anyone to take up a fitness routine; this has helped me remain active at 77. Occasionally, a personal trainer will watch me to see if I'm doing the exercises correctly and offer tips and advice. I train the muscles of my good leg and exercise my back, core, and arms. I'm also on the rowing machine regularly. My strength is declining despite exercising because everyone who gets older loses muscle mass. And I'm also not super consistent. In that respect, I'm only human, and some days do not feel like it."
Fighting confidence and insecurities with limb loss at 77
Kees loves to cycle, especially on vacation, as he finds it an excellent way to keep moving with less impact on his joints while reserving energy and sightseeing in a new city. However, he is no longer as confident as he used to be while riding a bicycle. "I keep resisting this and reassuring myself by taking a few deep breaths and getting going. Once on the bike, I feel like a young man again, reminding myself to keep fighting the battle against my insecurities and that I can still overcome them. It's a life attitude that I get a lot of in return, and I have never regretted it."
Share your Story or ask Kees!
We are a community, and Kees wonders how other people with disabilities cope with aging. "There used to be a club for people with leg prostheses, but unfortunately, it is no longer there. It would be nice to hear how other people cope with their prostheses and remain active as they age."
As the call ends, Kees concludes: "I am sharing my experiences here, but I am also curious to hear from others. Please share something about your vacations and how you stay fit in older age. I'd love to connect with you".
Do you have any questions for Kees that he can help you with? If so, please comment below on this article.