6 Benefits of Swimming for Seniors Needing Alzheimer's Care
There's no question that swimming is an excellent exercise for people of all ages, but it can be especially beneficial for seniors who need Alzheimer's care. As a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer's, you're always looking for ways to improve their quality of life. Swimming is a great activity that offers many benefits for seniors with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. It offers several advantages over other forms of exercise, so here are six reasons swimming is an ideal activity for those with Alzheimer's disease.
1. Swimming Can Help Seniors Stay Physically Active
Exercise is essential for everyone, but it is especially crucial for seniors. It is a great way to stay physically active. As we age, our bodies become less able to handle the impact of high-intensity activities like running or jogging. This can lead to joint pain, injuries, and other health problems.
Swimming is a low-impact form of exercise that is easy on the joints and muscles while still providing a great workout. It can be tailored to each individual's fitness level, making it an ideal form of exercise for seniors. Staying physically active is vital for overall health and wellness and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
2. Helps Improve Cognitive Function in Seniors
In addition to the physical benefits, swimming can also help improve cognitive function in seniors. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that regular swimming improved mental function in seniors, including memory and executive function (the ability to plan, organize, and make decisions).
3. Swimming Can Be a Social Activity for Seniors
Swimming can also be a social activity for seniors. Many seniors enjoy swimming because it allows them to meet other people and socialize. Swimming classes or groups offer an excellent way for seniors to stay connected with others and combat isolation and loneliness.
4. Improves Sleep in Seniors With Alzheimer’s All Year
Alzheimer's can cause disruptions to sleep, which can further contribute to stress and anxiety. Exercise improves sleep quality, and swimming is an excellent exercise for seniors with Alzheimer's. Many forms of exercise are weather-dependent, but swimming can be done year-round. This makes it a great form of exercise for seniors with Alzheimer's who may not be able to get out and about as much in the colder months.
5. Swimming Services Offered Through Companion Care
If you are a family caregiver who is busy or lives far away from your loved one, you may be interested in companion care services that include swimming as part of the care plan. These services provide peace of mind knowing that your loved one remains safe while swimming.
6. Family Members Can Facilitate Safer Swimming for Seniors With Alzheimer’s
There are some things that family members can do to help make swimming safer for seniors with Alzheimer's. For example, it's essential to ensure that the senior wears a life jacket or other floatation device. It's also essential to have someone else present who can help if needed. Finally, it's crucial to choose a safe location for swimming, such as a pool with a lifeguard on duty.
Bottom Line: Swimming Can Help Seniors Who Need Alzheimer's Care
Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for seniors with Alzheimer's disease. It has many benefits, including improved brain function, increased mobility and flexibility, and better cardiovascular health. If your loved one has Alzheimer's, consider enrolling them in a swimming class or arranging for regular swim sessions at home. It is a great way to keep them active, healthy, and happy.
It is also an excellent choice for seniors because it can be done at any fitness level, providing cardio, strength training, and flexibility. Whether you're just starting to get active or a seasoned swimmer, there's a level of swimming that's right for you. Contact Senior Helpers Erie today to learn more about how we can help make swimming a part of your loved one's care plan.