Staying fit and healthy has been proven to improve the quality and quantity of life, especially in senior citizens. Seniors should be encouraged to do some type of physical activity each day or risk losing their mobility. By being active, a person will be less likely to be lose their mobility, be confined to a bed or a chair and more likely to live a full and exciting life.
Benefits Of Being Active
A healthy lifestyle has been shown to be beneficial in many ways. Being active can reduce high blood pressure, strengthen the heart and reduce stress while improving a person’s mood. The chances of having a stroke are lowered in those who are active. Active individuals may see improvement in blood sugars and arthritis symptoms may fade. Even being moderately active is better than never leaving the couch and watching television all day.
Consequences Of Not Being Active
The consequences of not getting enough physical activity each day can be devastating. Weight gain is the most common consequence that is associated with lack of exercise. However, senior citizens are more likely to suffer from broken bones, becoming seriously ill more often, and being at a higher risk for cancer. Not being active can lead to having trouble sleeping and struggling with recalling details and memories. The length and quality of a person’s health can be improved with physical activity each day.
Getting Started
Many people find it hard to just get up and go workout. Before doing any type of activity, talk to the doctor to see if they have any restrictions or suggestions. The doctor may want to adjust medication, prescribe a specific activity or even require a brace for weaker body parts. It can be disheartening to start a new routine only to hurt yourself and have to stop. The doctor can help reduce the odds of that happening by guiding senior citizens to the correct level of intensity that they are ready for.
What Type Of Physical Activity Is Best?
There is a popular saying that a journey begins with a single step and when it comes to physical activity, it is particularly poignant. After getting the advice of a doctor on the level of intensity that is safe for the body, it is time to consider what kind of exercise is appealing. Determine what would be interesting to do each day. For the social senior citizen, perhaps joining a walking club would be fun. If gardens are intriguing, going for a walk at the local arboretum may be just what the doctor ordered. A bike ride with a loved one can be a wonderful adventure and there are many places that offer straight paths with no hills for even the novice cyclist.
There is no reason to sacrifice the ability to be independent if it can be prevented by daily exercise. Senior citizens can take control of their mobility and freedom by being active. Having a healthy lifestyle will improve personal health, longevity, memory and the ability to take care of yourself. Whether it is a walk with the neighbor or joining a yoga class, there is something for each person and their level of activity.