With the New Year comes new resolutions to get physically fit. Aging makes it even more important to keep our bodies active and healthy. According to the National Institute on Aging, physical activity can help seniors stay independent and actually prevent many health problems. Here are the top five physical activities seniors can do to maintain their health.
1. Walking
Walking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. It’s low-impact and easy on the joints, making it a good choice for seniors who may have arthritis or other conditions that make high-impact activities difficult. Walking also helps to improve balance and coordination, which can help prevent falls.
2. Swimming
Swimming is another excellent low-impact activity that is easy on the joints. It’s a great workout for the entire body and can help improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility. Swimming is also a great way to relax and de-stress.
3. Yoga
Yoga is a gentle form of exercise that can help improve flexibility, balance, and muscle strength. It’s also been shown to help reduce stress, anxiety, and pain. There are many different types of yoga, so seniors can find a class that’s right for their fitness level and needs.
Many “Chair Yoga” classes are offered for both seniors and younger people alike! It can be equally as beneficial as a regular yoga class, which can be more challenging to older adults.
4. Tai Chi
Tai chi is a Chinese martial art that combines slow, graceful movements with deep breathing and meditation. Tai chi has been shown to improve balance and coordination, as well as reduce stress and anxiety levels. It’s a good choice for seniors who are looking for a milder form of exercise.
5. Strength Training
Strength training is important for seniors because it helps build muscle mass and bone density, which can be lost as we age. Strength-training exercises can be done with dumbbells, resistance bands, or even just bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups. Talk to your doctor before starting any strength-training program to make sure it’s safe for you.
Physical activity is important at any age, but it’s essential for seniors because it can help prevent many health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, and osteoporosis, and can aid in fall risk reduction, according to the National Institute on Aging. In a Yale study, it was concluded that safe, well-tolerated exercises do help older drivers. Exercises that involved stretching activities with the arms and legs, as well as some walking, made 37% fewer “critical” driving errors than those who did not exercise.
As always, before beginning any new exercise routine, always check with your doctor first.
To find out more about senior living care lifestyles for you or your loved one, reach out to Senior Care Authority today.