Seniors who stay active reap real benefits. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, seniors who are physically active enjoy better moods, less anxiety and depression, decreased pain, and a lower risk of many serious health issues, including stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. In addition, active seniors often improve their ability to think, learn, and make decisions. Plus, they generally have better strength and balance, which helps avert injuries. And thankfully, there are plenty of ways for seniors to stay active.
Keeping Active in Your Senior Years
Experts recommend that older adults set a weekly goal of 150 minutes of moderate exercise. Both muscle-strengthening activities and balance activities should be included. For a two-for-one punch, pick activities that incorporate both. It’s beneficial to mix different activities to keep both you and your body from getting bored. However, you should always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
With so many ways for seniors to stay active, there’s sure to be something that suits you. Do you need some ideas? Here are a few to explore.
Yoga
Yoga isn’t just for extremely flexible people. It’s for everyone. Practiced for centuries, yoga has endless variations. While some routines involve twisting into pretzel-like shapes, others are completed while sitting in a chair. A knowledgeable teacher can offer exercises for every level of experience and ability. Yoga is an excellent way to improve balance, strength, and flexibility. It can also help reduce stress and boost concentration and focus.
Qi Gong
Developed as part of traditional Chinese medicine, qi gong uses coordinated movements, breathing, and meditation to optimize energy within the body to maintain or improve health and well-being. According to the National Center for Complimentary and Integrative Health, various studies have shown that qi gong can benefit seniors in the following ways:
- Improving cognition and memory in seniors, including those with existing mild cognitive impairments
- Helping prevent falls and supports balance training
- Supporting physical health and quality of life
- Boosting mental and emotional health
- Aiding in the control and management of chronic diseases like chronic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, fibromyalgia, hypertension, and Parkinson’s disease
Dancing
Whether you like to keep it in line, mix it up with swing, turn the temperature up with the tango, pour on the spice with salsa, stick to the rules with ballroom, or freestyle by simply hitting the dance floor with friends, dancing is a fantastic way to get exercise. It provides ample opportunity to socialize, get in cardio, keep your brain busy with techniques or routines, and work on balance and coordination.
Golfing
Hitting the links may not seem like exercise, but golfing can be a real workout. Walk the course instead of riding in the golf cart. Also, thinking about how you use your body as you take your swing can make you aware of the muscles that you’re using. Are you engaging the right muscles for proper form? Building these mental connections may even enhance your golf game.
Swimming
Water provides resistance even as its buoyancy takes stress off the joints. That makes it an excellent location for a workout for seniors. Whether it’s swimming laps or joining a water aerobics class, you can build muscle with less wear and tear on your joints and tendons when you exercise in the water.
Geocaching
If hide and seek was a favorite game, geocaching might be your next thrill. It’s also a great way to get outside and enjoy some exercise. With geocaching, participants use a GPS unit or mobile device and various navigational techniques to locate hidden caches outside. Check the logs for hints from other searchers, and remember to replace the cache for the next seeker to find. Finally, don’t forget to celebrate your success!
Walking
Walking is a familiar activity. It’s also good exercise! Walking regularly can boost energy, support a healthy immune system, help you sleep better, elevate your mood, aid in weight management, and reduce your risk of serious disease.
_____
With so many ways for seniors to stay active, the hardest part might be deciding which one to try. Thankfully, you don’t have to make a choice. Using a variety of activities that you enjoy to keep your body moving is smart. After all, when exercise is fun, you’re more likely to do it!
If you hope to retire in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, the Beach House Assisted Living & Memory Care could be the ideal place. Our friendly and compassionate staff members offer individualized care 24/7, ensuring all residents’ safety, security, and happiness. The Beach House provides assisted living and respite care. Most importantly, we tailor these services to suit each resident’s unique needs. To learn more about our amenities, please schedule a tour or call us at 904-615-8076. We look forward to hearing from you!