Staying active isn’t always easy in the golden years, but regular exercise becomes extremely important as seniors grow older. Most health experts agree seniors should try to be physically active for at least 20 or 30 minutes every day to boost their general health and reduce the risk of many common medical conditions. Here’s a closer look at seven reasons all seniors need to find some form of exercise they enjoy.
1. Increases Bone Strength
Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones and makes fractures much more likely to occur. There are many risk factors for osteoporosis, including a sedentary lifestyle. Resistance training strengthens muscles and increases the density of bones. This type of exercise can also increase balance and reduce the risk of injuries due to falls.
Seniors can significantly reduce their risk of fall-related injuries by receiving mobility assistance from professional caregivers. Elderly home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
2. Lowers the Risk of Diabetes
Diabetes has become pervasive over the last few decades, and the CDC reports more than 75 percent of all seniors currently have diabetes or prediabetes. While dietary habits play a major role in preventing this disease, exercising can be beneficial as well. Gently raising the heart rate for a few hours every week can lower glucose levels and stabilize the production of insulin.
3. Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
Researchers now know more than 85 million Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease, and this number is expected to grow in the coming years. Regularly exercising reduces the risk of heart disease by reducing cholesterol levels, lowering blood pressure, and burning fat. Seniors who have been diagnosed with heart disease should speak with their doctors before starting exercise programs.
4. Enhances Mental & Emotional Health
Many parts of the brain, including the areas responsible for the production of vital chemicals and hormones, are activated during and immediately after a training session. Countless studies have shown even moderate exercise can have a major impact on an individual’s mental and emotional health. Engaging in some type of rigorous activity can reduce a senior’s risk of depression, anxiety, severe mood swings, and various mental health conditions.
5. Promotes Independence
Most seniors want to remain as independent as possible, but certain health complications can make everyday activities dangerous. Seniors who have difficulty with balance, strength, or dexterity might find it difficult to cook their own meals or bathe on their own. Some of these health issues can be minimized with proper exercise routines.
Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Waterloo, ON, Home Care Assistance are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
6.Saves Money on Medical Bills
Even if seniors have excellent insurance coverage, their medical bills can still be staggering. Many aging adults end up spending thousands of dollars each year on medication, physical therapy, and hospital visits. Sticking to a healthy diet and frequently exercising can reduce the risk of chronic ailments and acute injuries that might end up costing huge sums of money.
7. Reduces the Risk of Dementia
Another reason exercising is so important for older adults is because it reduces the risk of disorders that currently have no cures. Certain types of dementia have been on the rise in recent years, and many specialists believe a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of developing these disorders. Almost any activity that boosts cardiovascular health can also boost brain health.
Some seniors find it difficult to exercise and manage simple tasks without assistance. In Waterloo, homecare service providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn about our professional in-home care services and how they can benefit your loved one, call us at (519) 954-2111 today.