Almost anyone, at any age, can do some type of physical activity, even if they have health conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, or any other ailments that may make exercising more difficult. In fact, regular physical activity may help.  

Studies have found that physical activity extends beyond weight management and can benefit overall health and wellness, even lowering the risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and helps those with arthritis, osteoporosis, and other ailments.  

Incorporating the following four types of exercises is good for most older adults with or without health conditions. 

Senior Care Liberty, TX: Exercises for Seniors

Senior Care Liberty, TX: Exercises for Seniors

  • Endurance. Endurance exercises or aerobic activities increase breathing and heart rate. They keep the heart, lungs, and circulatory system healthy and as a result, helps improve overall fitness. Some endurance activities include; brisk walking or jogging and yard work such as mowing the lawn, raking, and gardening.  
  • Strength. Also referred to as strength training or resistance training, strength exercises such as; lifting weights, using a resistance band, or body weight can build and strengthen the muscles to allow more independence when it comes to daily activities like walking up stairs or carrying groceries.   
  • Flexibility. Such activities as shoulder and upper body stretch, calf stretches or yoga allows the muscles to stretch and can make the body more limber.  
  • Balance. Balance exercises can help prevent falls. Standing on one foot and alternating from one to the other, heel-to-toe walking and Tai Chi are some upper body exercises that help improve balance.  

Physical activity is good for strengthening the heart muscle and raising high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol) and lowering low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol). It reduces body fat, which is associated with high blood pressure and can help prevent and control obesity and diabetes. Physical activity also strengthens bones, reducing back pains or other pains, and promotes bone function which is good for those with Osteoporosis or Arthritis.  

For most older adults, even with health conditions, brisk walking, riding a bike, swimming, and weight lifting are safe, especially if the exercises are built up slowly, but it is always important to talk with a doctor before starting any physical activity. A senior care provider can provide suggestions and modifications based on health conditions and individual abilities and needs.  

 

If you or an aging loved-one is considering Senior Care in Liberty, TX please contact the caring staff at Viv Health Care Services today(832) 871-4223 

 

Sources:  

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/osteoporosis 

www.medicinenet.com