It’s important for women to work on staying fit at any age, but it’s even more essential for elderly women because they’re at higher risk for developing serious health conditions. Your aging loved one will be happy to hear she doesn’t have to work too hard to get into better shape, and here are some suggestions to get her started.
Do Cardio Workouts
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among older women. One way women can reduce their risk of heart disease is by doing regular aerobic exercise. A cardio workout involves any form of activity that utilizes large muscle groups and elevates the heart rate. Older women should consider low-impact cardio workouts such as walking, dancing, swimming, and water aerobics to avoid putting excess strain on the joints.
If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. Waterloo respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.
Focus on Strength Training
Strength training is essential for maintaining bone and muscle mass after menopause. A significant decrease in bone mass can lead to osteoporosis and a higher risk of bone fractures. Strength training involves repetitive motions using weights or items that provide resistance. The increased muscle mass may also make it easier for your loved one to get in and out of a car or perform household chores independently. Your loved one can incorporate strength training into her workout by exercising with resistance bands, a light pair of dumbbells, or ankle weights. She can even use soup cans from the cupboard if weights aren’t available.
Build Flexibility
Estrogen is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. As estrogen levels decrease during menopause, many women experience an increase in joint pain and stiffness. Stretching exercises can keep joints and muscles flexible and alleviate postmenopausal pain and stiffness. Yoga is a low-impact form of exercise that can help women stay limber well into their senior years.
Many seniors are able to safely enjoy numerous types of exercise, especially when they have the help of trained professional caregivers. Home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
Increase Balance
Balance exercises can help older women enhance their posture and walking ability. Increased core strength can also reduce their risk of falls and fractures, a frequent cause of hospitalizations and nursing home admissions among seniors. Martial arts techniques like tai chi use movements that build both balance and strength. Many community centers and YMCAs offer tai chi and similar classes specifically geared toward senior women.
Seniors who need help exercising safely can benefit from the help of trained professional caregivers. Waterloo at-home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. If you need professional home care for your loved one, our Care Managers are just a phone call away. Reach out to Home Care Assistance today at (519) 954-2111.