ABSTRACT
SUMMARY. As our population ages, maintaining independence in the elderly through functional mobility is of key importance. Functional mobility refers to the ability level of the individual to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). Flexibility of muscles and range of motion within joints dictate in part our ability to perform ADLs and avoid injury. Health care professionals working with the elderly should obtain knowledge regarding flexibility and range of motion and how they pertain to posture, balance, and gait. Flexibility and range of motion can be maintained and improved through a gradual 38progression of static stretching exercises for the entire body. [Article copies available from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1–800–42–9678.]
