Known Benefits of Exercise for Seniors | Executive Care of Richmond
Did you know that older adults should be getting at least 2 1/2 hours of physical activity each week? If you’re having a hard time convincing your aging loved one to be physically active, talk with him or her about the many benefits that exercise offers.
Known Physical Benefits of Exercise
Exercise might not be your loved one’s favorite thing to do, but the benefits of exercise far outweigh the negatives:
Increase in strength. Muscles and nerves get stronger with regular use, making day-to-day mobility easier.
Stronger immune system. Exercise increases overall immunity and makes it easier to fight off disease.
Increase in energy. While your loved one may be tired during or immediately after exercise, overall energy will see a boost with regular physical activity.
Lower blood pressure. Not only can exercise lower blood pressure for everyone, but it can also help those with chronic hypertension experience fewer symptoms.
Improvement in chronic conditions. Many who suffer from chronic illnesses, arthritis, Alzheimer’s and mental health issues find their symptoms to be more manageable after implementing a regular exercise routine.
Decrease in falls. One in three older adults falls in a given year, making falls one of the biggest causes of injury and death among the population. Regular exercise can help improve balance, lowering the risk of falling.
Known Mental Benefits of Exercise
The physical benefits might be the most obvious, but there are also many ways that exercise boosts the brain and a person’s mental health:
Improved mood. Physical activity releases positive endorphins, which in turn help boost mood and decrease the risk of anxiety and depression.
Improved focus. Exercise is a known way to lower the risk of developing all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s. It also boosts overall cognitive health.
Reduced stress. Exercise removes stress hormones in the body. This is great for our mental well-being, as well as decreasing blood pressure and heart issues.
Great Exercises for Seniors
Before beginning any new exercise routine, it’s important for seniors to talk with a doctor. But there are a number of types of exercise that doctors often recommend for older adults:
- Walking
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Yoga
- Pilates
Of course, the best exercise is the one your loved one enjoys and will do regularly! So encourage him or her to experiment until finding the right fit.
At Executive Care of Richmond, we work alongside you to be sure your loved one is staying healthy and fulfilled in all aspects of life. Get in touch today to learn about our in-home services.
