Physical activity is something that people of all ages need, but for seniors who are staying at home, mobility, strength, and balance could all be the key to successful aging. The problem is often that people find exercise and moving more to be a chore or something they just don’t enjoy doing. That means they end up avoiding it more often than not. With the help of senior home care providers, seniors can find new ways to get excited about being more physically active.
Why Is Physical Activity Crucial for Seniors?
Regular physical activity has some huge benefits for aging adults who want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. First, they are more likely to hang onto muscle strength when they move more. They may also be more flexible and able to maintain their balance. All of this supports heart health and can alleviate some symptoms of chronic health issues, but it can also help them to avoid falls and other injuries.
Tailor Exercise Programs to Individual Needs
Every senior’s physical health is different, and their ability to engage in physical activity is different, too. Seniors should talk to their doctors before starting any exercise program. Doctors may recommend a combination of activities that include gentle stretching for flexibility or strength training to maintain muscle. Balance and coordination exercises are typically recommended for seniors who have a high risk of falling. The key is for seniors to start where they are and build up strength and endurance.
Make Moving Fun
The more fun it is for aging adults to move more and to exercise, the more likely it is that they’ll stick with it. Most people think about exercise as working out and doing specific exercises. That definitely counts, but everyday tasks can include movement, too. Having a dance break in the afternoon with friends or home care providers is exercise, but it’s also fun. Gardening, swimming, or doing yoga could all be part of an exercise plan that also includes fun. Starting a walking group with friends might be another option. What matters is consistency and that seniors enjoy what they’re doing.
Establish Daily Routines
Staying active every day is a lot easier when it’s just part of the routine. Setting some small goals that are easily achievable ensures that seniors build confidence that they can really do this. Senior home care providers can help aging adults to keep movement in their daily tasks and remember to get up now and again. Their companionship can also help to keep movement enjoyable for seniors.
The more seniors embrace a regular exercise plan, the more likely they are to hang onto their independence and enjoy aging in place. Senior home care services work with aging adults to integrate movement and other necessary activities safely into their daily lives. Exercise doesn’t have to be complicated or something that seniors dread doing on a regular basis. They can have a lot of fun and reap the benefits of moving more.
If you or an aging loved one is considering senior home care in Manteca, CA, please contact the caring staff at Provident Care Home Care today at (209) 578-1210.
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