Staying active and moving their muscles can promote healthy aging in older adults, decreasing the risk of developing various conditions, including diabetes, sleeping disorders, depression, and osteoporosis. Family caregivers need to keep their senior loved ones physically active and in good shape. Below are some fitness activities older adults can add to their weekly routines.
Cycling
Low-impact exercises such as cycling lower the risk of injuries and provide many health benefits. Adding a cycling routine to the exercise schedule could build your loved one’s strength and stamina and protect his or her mental health. Cycling around the neighborhood or with a cycling group can increase blood flow and the transport of oxygen to various organs throughout the body, boosting their functions. If your loved one cycles regularly and adopts other healthy habits, he or she may feel happier and more content in the senior years.
Seniors with health conditions or mobility issues can still get the benefits of exercise, especially with the help of trained professional caregivers. Edmonton senior 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.
Performing Tai Chi
Falling is one of the top causes of fractures, broken bones, and other injuries in older adults. However, doing tai chi regularly can increase bone strength and reduce the risk of falling. The techniques used in tai chi can enhance balance because the exercise mostly centers on staying upright. By continuing to practice tai chi, your loved one can increase his or her flexibility, range of motion, and leg strength, which are things that typically decrease with age.
Jogging
Some of the most common health conditions seniors develop include inflammation, high cholesterol, and chronic stress. Taking up fitness activities such as jogging can prevent these issues and much more. Jogging 10–15 minutes a day can increase bone density and insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of some cancers. Jogging is a physical activity that allows seniors to socialize with others instead of giving in to isolation and loneliness.
If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having an in-home respite caregiver take over for you. Edmonton 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.
Swimming
Adults who take up swimming in their senior years can boost their heart health. The more seniors do this exercise, the more they can protect their thinking skills, strengthen their memory, and lower the risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Swimming is an ideal exercise because it doesn’t put a lot of stress on the body, especially the muscles, due to the buoyancy of the water. Your loved one should sign up for senior-friendly swimming courses at the local community center to interact with other people for social stimulation.
Weightlifting
Lifting weights can lead to better bone health in the senior years, which is important because seniors lose bone density with age. Your loved one should take it easy and lift lighter weights to reduce the risk of overworking the muscles or heart rate. Developing a good weightlifting routine could lead to stronger mental health and lower anxiety levels. Seniors who lift weights can also increase the amount of time they walk without becoming tired.
Seniors who need assistance with exercising safely can benefit from the help of a trained professional caregiver. Edmonton 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 your loved one needs professional care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. To learn more about our reliable, compassionate in-home care services, contact us at (780) 490-7337 today.