The secret to feeling better and living longer is staying active. Finding a workout routine that works for your aging loved one and helping them stick with it can pay big dividends. Regular exercise helps older people stay independent and may even prevent diabetes, heart trouble, arthritis pain, anxiety and depression. You may not see your aging loved one at the gym every day, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be conscious about their physical health. No matter our age, it’s important to keep exercise in mind.
When it comes to our aging loved ones, the right workout is crucial. You don’t want to push them too hard, but it’s important to get them moving. Regular physical activity can improve your loved one’s quality of life in so many ways. Doing something your senior loves to do is a great way to stay motivated. Over exerting themselves or participating in an exercise program that they don’t really like can make them feel exhausted and very likely cause them to discontinue the activity altogether. As with any new exercise program, consult their doctor before fully implementing any changes.
When it comes to beginning a regular exercise routine, remember to begin slowly. Start with exercises that your senior loved one is already doing comfortably. Starting slowly makes it less likely they will injure themselves. Starting slowly also prevents soreness. Walking is an excellent activity to start with. Whenever possible, join in. Your aging loved one isn’t the only one who should be working on their fitness. Join in! Motivation is crucial when it comes to getting more active, so encourage your clients by working out by their side.
Make working out fun for your aging loved one. Working out does not have to be a downer. Even sitting in a chair can be transformed into a workout routine with the right creativity and motivation. If your loved one enjoys swimming or if dancing gets them excited, remind them to do what they enjoy.
Whenever possible, break up the exercise and workout routine. You don’t have to get all of your physical activities in at once. Take time outs and break up routines into smaller segments. This will help keep seniors from getting tired of one activity, as well as help mix up their routine.
You are never too old to start exercising. In fact, exercise only gets more important with advancing age. Research shows that no matter what your age, you stand to gain improvements in strength, balance, bone density and mental clarity through exercise. Working on your fitness not only improves your physical health, but also your mental health. Working out, even on a minimum level, can greatly decrease stress and anxiety levels.
If you would like to learn more about the many benefits of caring and consistent in-home senior care and professional dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers to speak to an elderly care specialist today 859-283-5500! Senior Helpers of Florence provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, companionship, personal assistance, and so much more to all areas of Ft. Mitchell, Edgewood, Crestview Hills, Union, Villa Hills.