Exercise is incredibly beneficial for people of all ages, especially seniors. It may be harder to get seniors to exercise due to mobility issues. However, there are ways to ensure your senior loved one is getting enough exercise at home. Before beginning a new exercise routine, always check with your senior loved one's doctor for advice.
Benefits of Exercise for Senior Citizens
Seniors should get at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity each week. Muscle strengthening is also a must. Exercising offers many benefits, including:
Improved Physical Health
Regular exercise can help with managing chronic diseases and minimizing their complications. Not only that, it increases strength, endurance, and balance.
Improved Mental Health
Exercising can improve mental health by reducing anxiety and stress. It also boosts endorphins, which are mood-boosting hormones.
Improved Quality of life
Physical activity can enhance your senior loved one's overall quality of life. With regular exercise, they will also see an improvement in sleep. It can also boost their confidence.
Ways to Get Your Senior Loved One to Exercise More
There are many tools you can use to ensure your senior parent is getting enough exercise at home. Here are a few things to consider:
Fitness Apps
There are a variety of fitness apps available for all types of workout routines. Examples include Step Counter Plus and 8Fit.
In-Home Trainer
Consider hiring a professional trainer for your senior loved one. The trainer can help lead them through different exercises. Trainers will usually create a plan to help your senior loved one improve and build stamina while considering any health issues.
Online Exercise Routines
If an in-home trainer is not possible, many online programs provide exercises and workout routines. YouTube has a plethora of free exercise videos designed specifically for seniors. You can try a few until your senior loved one finds a favorite.
Tips for Encouraging Senior Parents to Exercise at Home
Once you find the right exercises, here are some tips to help motivate your senior parent:
Make It Fun
You want your senior parent to be excited to work out, so find activities that they enjoy. If dancing is their thing, introduce them to an online Zumba class or two. There are plenty of available fitness exercises out there. You should be able to work with your senior parent to find one that excites them.
Make It Convenient
Make the workout convenient. This makes it easier for your senior loved one to get up and exercise. Setting aside a specific time for exercising daily may help them stick to their routine.
Make It Safe
To keep safe, have your senior loved one use the proper form when exercising. You can check with your senior parent's doctor and a trainer before starting a new exercise regimen to ensure it's done safely.
Make It Social
Exercising with someone else is an easy way to keep your senior parent motivated. You can join them for a little workout yourself or have them invite a friend to make it more fun.
Senior Helpers Exton Provides Needed Daily Support
Getting enough exercise at home benefits seniors by boosting their physical and mental well-being. There are many ways to make exercising more fun, convenient, and safe. Consider these tips when developing an exercise routine at home in West Chester, Coatesville, Downingtown, Kennett Square, Exton, or Chester County. Senior Helpers Exton can help your senior loved one take an afternoon walk or meal prep. Contact us today to learn more about all the ways we can help!