| As people get older, they tend to move less and avoid doing the things they once loved for fear of injury and/or falls. But there is truth to the saying, “If you don’t move it, you lose it.” Inactivity actually causes weakness and makes it harder to do everyday tasks. Exercise does the opposite – it strengthens muscles, increases flexibility and minimizes joint discomfort so body movements are easier.
Exercise and fitness can help benefit the elderly in a variety of ways, including improving balance, maintaining a healthy weight, boosting attitude, and better managing fall risks. Maintaining an active lifestyle may also help to calm symptoms of existing diseases to a comfortable level.
Fitness for older people does not have to be strenuous or complicated. Safety and comfort should always be the highest priorities for seniors evaluating an exercise program. There are many gentle elderly fitness regimes available that include all the benefits of exercise for other age groups. Mild aerobics help by gently increasing heart rate to help lung and muscle function, while improving blood circulation, which is quite beneficial for the heart.
Although elderly fitness programs vary, many are low-impact. Water aerobics are especially helpful to people with arthritis, joint or muscle aches, and yoga helps to relax and elongate muscles. Simple stretches are great for those who are unable to walk or are limited in their mobility. Certain exercises are also thought to help with symptoms of diabetes and other diseases. Even something as simple as a short walk can be extremely beneficial.
Seniors who exercise often report that feelings of depression fade and a sense of well-being returns. When we exercise, our bodies release endorphins, which make us feel happier and more energized. For those who suffer from chronic depression, the benefits of endorphins alone can help enrich life. Furthermore, senior fitness classes can be a great way to socialize and meet new friends because they cater to a specific age group. Participants can support and encourage one another to reach common goals of stronger muscles, improved movement and healthier hearts.
The benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle as you age are far-reaching. Combined with a healthy diet and vitamin supplements, a better life lies ahead for seniors who exercise and mind what they eat. To get started right away, consult your doctor about what programs might be right for you. Always use precaution and take heed of your doctors’ instructions.
A wonderful resource is the the booklet Exercise and Physical Activity published by the National Institute on Aging (NIA). For more information, call the NIA toll-free at 800.222.2225, or visit their website at www.nia.nih.gov.
To learn how Home Helpers can help you with your loved one’s needs, including personalized in-home care with a full range of flexible services, call (877) 464-9090 or contact us online. Good luck on your quest to a stronger and happier life!
About Home Helpers®
Home Helpers is the premier provider of in-home, non-medical and personal care and companionship for seniors, people coping with a lifelong illness or disability, and those recuperating from a recent surgery or hospitalization. Home Helpers is an agency, not a registry. We employ caregivers who are thoroughly screened using our exclusive Care Check System™. By utilizing our Client & Caregiver Matching System™, we ensure the best caregiver selection. We are committed to the delivery of a positive home care experience for your family.
We don’t just take care of our clients, we plan for them, using our comprehensive and customized Home Helpers Total Care Plan™. Home Helpers is proactive, not reactive, and offers a flexible, affordable continuum of care that changes as our clients’ needs change. We tailor our care plans to our clients’ unique needs and tap our extensive network of referral resources relevant to every aspect of care.
From occasional visits to respite to hospice care, the team at Home Helpers is with you every step of the way, providing guidance, reassurance and compassionate care always.
To learn how we can put together a Total Care Plan™, including helping with a continuum of care plan for you or your loved one, call us at (877) 464-9090 or learn more online. |
