Older Adult Exercise Has Many Benefits

Posted on 22. Jan, 2012 by admin in Fitness aging, Senior exercise

It is no surprise to learn that exercise has many physical health benefits. But did you know that for the older adult exercise can help ward off mental disease in addition to things like cancer, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, not to mention cardiovascular disease? Keeping the body active helps keep the mind active.

For today’s older adult exercise is especially essential. People are living longer for many reasons, but quality of life is just as important as the quantity of years that a person lives. If you are an older adult exercise can help you stay positive and can keep your brain as healthy as your heart. Even moderate exercise has significant health benefits.

Many older adults are retired and spend a majority of their time at home, so exercise is a great way to get them up and moving. It also is an excellent opportunity for them to socialize with others in the same or similar stage of life. Exercise clubs exist within many retirement communities and assisted living facilities. If you are an older adult living in a typical community, then see if your neighbors go on routine walks or start your own club. Walking around your neighborhood also can help you get to know your neighbors better.

In addition to walking, older adult exercises that offer great health benefits include light jogging and playing things like golf or tennis. Swimming also is a low-impact aerobics workout that has great health benefits. For the older adult exercises that offer low impact are especially important for proper bone health. However, it is best to consult with your health care professional before starting any fitness regimen.

There are four important elements that encompass older adult exercises. These include balance, endurance, flexibility and strength. All are important elements to keep seniors in shape both mentally and physically.

Things like gentle yoga can help with balance and prevent the incidence of falls in seniors. Endurance can be built by taking long or consistent walks. Flexibility can be achieved through things like yoga and gentle stretching. Strength comes through the use of light weights or gym equipment designed for this use.

If you are an older adult exercise can help you stay in shape, particularly if you incorporate these four elements and eat a balanced diet that is high in fiber, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. There is no substitute for exercise. It keeps the mind and body healthy.