How To Stay Active As A Senior

As we age, it is increasingly important we remain active. While seniors sometimes feel like exercise puts them at risk for injury, daily activity maintains memory, health, mood and even supports the management of existing illness.

It does not matter how old we are, or our current physical condition; there are exercises that can be incorporated into all daily routines. By increasing movement and activity, seniors stay stronger, more energetic and healthier. Senior workouts do not have to be strenuous, nor do they necessitate trips to the gym.

Understanding how to stay active as a senior can add years to your life and life to your years!

How to Stay Active as a Senior

• Go for walks. Walking is a great form of exercise and often doesn’t even feel like it! Walking requires no special equipment and can strengthen muscles and burn calories. It is great for lowering blood pressure, blood sugar and even cholesterol. If it is too hot outside, or you feel unsafe, walking indoors has the same great benefits. Consider supermarkets, museums, libraries and art galleries. No matter where you walk though, it is imperative seniors stay hydrated!
• Keep a garden. Gardening is a fun and low impact way to build strength and get natural Vitamin D.
• Go for a dip. Swimming is one of the best health activities we can incorporate into our lives! Swimming is a full body but low impact workout, so risk of injury is greatly reduced. Swimming is also considered fun by most of us, so motivation is easier to come by! If you don’t have a pool at home, schools and community centers often open their facilities to the public.
• Go dancing. Attending dance classes keeps your mind happy and your body active. Whether it’s at home, at a senior center, or in private classes, dancing is a great option!
• Practice yoga. Yoga involves breathing control, meditation, and specific postures that stretch and challenge both your body and mind. Yoga has huge physical health benefits, and is also associated with stress reduction and calmness.

If you or a loved one are aging and you’re concerned about physical mobility or mental health, consider developing an exercise plan. In cases of dementia, increasing physical activity has been linked to better memory. Consult a doctor, or a caregiver, such as Interim Healthcare in the Central Valley to design and implement the most appropriate fitness program. If necessary, Interim home healthcare aides can provide transport, oversight and motivation to get fit and stay fit!