Staying Fit and Active Through Your Senior Years

Naturally, you have heard of the benefits and merits of staying active and physically fit- but this is even more integral as you age and enter your senior years. In addition to the bevy of physical health perks that exercise brings, it also fosters self-confidence, purpose, and social engagement. Holistically, remaining active is the key to aging in place for older Americans.

Studies suggest that the key to living a long, healthy life is exercise and staying fit. The many benefits of physical activity include weight control, improved heart health, and enhanced mood- among others; the benefits extend well into senior years, helping many life-long fitness enthusiasts maintain flexibility, range of motion, and mobility well into their golden years.

While challenging, it is physical activity that helps many seniors rehabilitate after a fall or injury, and when mobility is limited, devices like lifts and scooters may help. In fact, mobility equipment may be the support that many need when living autonomously or aging in place.

So, how do you stay fit and remain active in your senior years? Here are some tips:

Seniors Staying Fit

So, what kind of physical activity is best for older people, seniors, or those with physical limitations? Exercise suggestions will vary based on the individual, however, low-impact and resistance exercise seems to be most suited to seniors, and most feasible. Plus, many community groups, organizations, and resources offer senior fitness classes or workout facilities for individuals over 60. Things like cycling, walking, swimming, and yoga are a few examples of activities that have distinct benefits for seniors.

Benefits Across the Lifespan

These benefits for seniors mentioned include holistic advantages that can help make aging in place a reality. Many seniors wish to remain in their own home and live unassisted, the way that they choose; physical disabilities or mobility issues can threaten this independence, as physical health could impede activities of daily life. One way to combat this is through a regular fitness regimen. Regardless of your fitness level, there are other, interesting perks to moving more each-and-every day. Some of these benefits are:

• Exercise fosters socialization with other people, whether it is a casual acquaintance on a walk or the other participants in a workout class.
• There is a sense of purpose that is derived from regular, consistent activity and exercise. It can be the impetus that gets some out of bed each day.
• Exercise is a natural anti-depressant. A brisk, 20-minute walk, for example, can release feel-good endorphins in the brain making you feel happier and more content.

Need some assistance standing, walking, or getting around? Talk to your provider or practitioner about a referral for mobility aids that could make it a lot easier- and safer- to maintain regular physical activity.

National Senior Health and Fitness Day

National Senior Health And Fitness Day is a great time to remind yourself of the importance of physical activity- regardless of the challenges. Take time to find solutions that improve accessibility issues that may be an obstacle to getting up and moving each day. Some of the objectives of National Senior Health and Fitness Day are to spread awareness of the benefits of regular physical activity- both body and mind.  This is the perfect excuse to explore senior-aimed fitness options in your region or online and to facilitate getting involved or helping a senior participate.

Not sure how to help? Invite an older neighbor to go for a walk! Simple solutions that get people moving- safely, of course- are vital in commemorating Health and Fitness Day, as well as helping others stay fit.

More Tips for Seniors

Speaking of safety, it merits a reminder to stay safe and avoid falls however possible. Use railings, grab-bars, or other aids as needed- and indicate when you need assistance or aids out in the community. For example, if your doctor’s office has steps that present an issue, ask about an alternative entrance. Some other tips for staying active and safe include these:

• Daily exercise helps to retain bone mass, which makes you less susceptible to broken bones and fractures.
• Maintaining a healthy weight does help eliminate pressure on joints, feet, and your back, which can decrease pain from arthritis or other chronic pain condition. Essentially, if you can move more, you will feel less pain.
• Regular physical activity lowers the risk of most illnesses and diseases, typically.
• Schedule bi-annual checkups with your provider or doctor for preventative care and wellness exams- even if nothing is wrong.

These basic tips ensure you can participate in regular activity without running additional risk of a nasty fall or injury.

If accessibility is an issue for you, contact the professionals at Pacific Mobility for a comprehensive assessment and no-obligation consultation. Staying active can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or physical limitations; equipment and devices from Pacific Mobility make it easier. Call or visit today.