Have you ever heard that you’re only as old as you feel? It may sound like one of those old cliches, but there’s a lot of truth to it. Just ask seniors who understand the ways that exercise and aging intersect.
What Do I Need to Know About Exercise and Aging to Age Well?
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a cure for aging? While there’s no magic pill to reverse the effects of a well-lived life, there is something that any senior can do to help them age well. Doctors agree that there’s nothing better for your body or mind in your golden years than regular exercise. What’s the connection between exercise and aging, and how can it help you make the most of your senior years?
The Benefits of Exercise for Seniors
Getting more exercise is a standard recommendation for seniors. However, you may not know all of the benefits you can enjoy from a regular exercise routine. Exercise can provide concrete benefits in nearly every area of senior health:
- Do you find yourself getting sick easily? A senior’s immune functions can naturally decline as they age. Research demonstrates that seniors who exercise regularly have immune function on par with those of younger people.
- Exercise is increasingly prescribed for common senior mobility problems like arthritis and osteoporosis. Exercise can improve your bone density and also make your muscular system stronger, which helps to take the pressure off your joints and can lessen resultant aches and pains. A muscular body can improve your balance and coordination and lower your fall risk.
- Exercise can also relieve other chronic health issues that seniors struggle with. Regular exercise can help seniors avoid or recover from problems like obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and high blood pressure.
- Exercise is good for your physical health, but it’s also good for your mental health. Exercise provides mental stimulation, lowers stress levels, and improves your energy levels and mood, all of which have a positive effect on your cognitive functions and mental health. As a result, regular exercise can dramatically reduce the effects of aging on the brain.
- For some seniors, exercise provides a reliable source of good feelings and self-esteem. Taking care of your body is something that you can always be proud of, especially when you know precisely why it’s benefitting you so much!
How Can I Get the Exercise I Need?
When you combine all of the positive effects above, you can see why so many doctors will tell you that exercise is the best way to ensure that your mind and body are aging well. Even if you’ve never worked out in your life, there’s plenty you can do to get started:
- Seniors benefit from exercise routines that include stretching, strength training, and aerobic exercise. Popular options for seniors include yoga, pilates, and body weight exercises like standing push-ups.
- If you need special guidance, consider taking a class at a local gym or senior center. You can also find lots of great resources for active seniors online.
- Exercise is more enjoyable when you do it with a friend, so find an accountability buddy you can work out with. You’ll keep each other motivated and have fun, too.
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Once you understand the connection between exercise and aging, you’ll want to make working out a regular habit. Here’s to your health!
P.S. Check out these fun beach ball exercises!
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