No matter how old you currently are, having an active lifestyle which incorporates exercise matters. It’s simple, really: if we take good care of our bodies, we’ll live longer and have a healthier, more fulfilling life. Physical activity is, or at least it should be, an essential part of who we are. But as we age, our ability to move our body may shift or even decline. Does that mean we should stop trying to keep up with an active lifestyle? Definitely not.
In fact, it means just the opposite: we should do our best to stay as active as possible. This is part of the reason why homecare in Sherman Oaks incorporates light physical activity and walking whenever possible. It is also why doctors recommend physical therapy to senior patients.
So what are the best physical activities for seniors and what is the best way for seniors to stay active?
What is the best workout for seniors?
Ideally, seniors should opt for low-impact activities with gentle, fluid motions which are easy on the joints:
- Walking
- Water aerobics
- Pilates
- Yoga
- Resistance band workouts
- Body weight workouts
- Dumbbell strength training
It may be a good idea to undergo a check-up and screening tests before deciding which physical activity to take up.
Should seniors lift heavy weights?
Seniors should incorporate some strength training into their workout routine, but they may be ill-advised to push themselves to perform high-intensity workouts. While popular, HIT programs are well-suited for younger adults who are strapped for time and need a fast way to shed fat and build muscle.
The effect on seniors attempting to do the same could be detrimental: the unhealthy strain these activities could put on older adults may lead to joint pain, muscle aches, issues with posture and balance, or worse.
What is a good weekly exercise routine?
The best exercise routine is a regular one, whether done once a week or several times a week. Aside from getting to enjoy the feel-good, energizing effect of exercising, we will be safe from all the potential negative impacts a lack of activity can have on our bodies, self-image and overall health and wellbeing: higher risk of falls, muscle loss, weight gain, etc.
For instance, a weekly trip to Deervale-Stone Canyon Park, a popular hiking trail suitable for beginners, is an excellent weekly exercise routine. It is important that the activity is modified to suit a person’s needs and abilities. For seniors who are in a better state of health and more active, this can be a brisk walk, while for seniors who are new to the activity, it can take the form of a slow-paced, short-distance stroll.
What is the best time of day for seniors to exercise?
Most fitness experts recommend working out in the morning, even before filling up on nutrients at breakfast time. For most people, this is the time when their metabolism is the fastest and they are least likely to have to reschedule or postpone their workout.
But although physical activity is the best way to kickstart one’s day, boost metabolism and be more energized and productive for the rest of the day, seniors normally have flexible schedules so they can opt to exercise during any other time of the day.
Whether your loved one opts for a morning routine or an evening one, it’s important that they exercise regularly.
How many days a week should seniors exercise?
Each person is unique, and the frequency of their exercise routine may depend on whether they are accustomed to an active lifestyle.
However, it is recommended that seniors aged 65 or older get a minimum of 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise on a weekly basis. This can be divided into 30 minute-long sessions done 5 days a week.
Seniors who already have an active lifestyle and perform strenuous activities on a regular basis can opt for a more vigorous exercise such as jogging.
Get a fresh start with premium homecare in Sherman Oaks
So many things slip through the cracks when you have countless responsibilities to juggle, day in, day out. In the meantime, your aging parents are left to their own devices and their potential lack of physical activity, poor diet and loneliness can take a serious toll on their health.
So why not take a simple step to eliminate these risks?
Leave your loved one’s care in our hands, guilt-free. Call A Better Way in Home Care today to set up a consultation at your convenience.
