The fact that senior adults should pay attention to their fitness and also take care to not over-exert themselves is a seeming contradiction. As we grow older, our bones and muscles weaken and our bodies become more prone to ailments, especially cardiovascular disease. However, a regimen of low-impact exercise can add years to seniors’ lives and health and happiness to those years.
Swimming
Swimming can be the perfect aerobic exercise as well as a way to keep the muscles toned. At the same time, getting into the pool will place less stress on the bones and joints, an important consideration for people starting to get arthritis and osteoporosis.
Walking
Walking is also a great way to exercise. A study cited by the Mayo Clinic suggests that people who walk 10,000 steps a day are 46 percent less likely to die young than people who do not engage in exercise. Walking a significant distance is also a good cardio exercise, an important consideration since many older people are felled by heart attacks and strokes.
Yoga to Achieve Balance
As people age, they tend to start having balance problems. Falls can break bones, including hips, which lead to expensive surgical procedures and a lot of time in rehab. Yoga is a great way to not only build muscle tone but also to help maintain balance.
Weight Training
Weight training helps to maintain muscle tone and to strengthen aging bones. Older people are not going to set too many power-lift records. The goal is to lift lighter weights in a program to strengthen the muscles and legs.
Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic classes geared toward older people are not only a great way to stay fit, but since it is a group effort, an even greater way to form friendships with people your own age. Ballroom dancing has similar qualities and constitutes a perfect occasion to spend time with your spouse or significant other.
Conclusion
Remember, good exercise is a benefit at any age. All you have to do is to find a series of activities that are appropriate for your years and condition and stick to them.
Living at Baxter Senior Living in Anchorage Alaska At Baxter Senior Living, we work to ensure that our community is an extension of your loved ones family. If you are at a place in your life that you need to discuss Anchorage Assisted Living, Anchorage Memory Care, or Anchorage Respite Care please reach out today. We are happy to help answer any questions. Contact a Baxter Senior Living Representative today! 907-865-3500
