Daily walking has been recommended as a form of exercise by healthcare professionals. There are numerous benefits to including regular walks in your daily routine, especially for seniors.
Daily Walks Can Lower Blood Pressure
One of the main benefits of daily walking is that it can help reduce high blood pressure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), physical activity such as walking can help seniors with high blood pressure manage their condition better than medication alone. Regular physical activity makes a senior's heart stronger and able to pump more efficiently so that their entire body functions better with less strain on the heart and other organs.
More Benefits Of Daily Walks
In addition to lowering blood pressure, regular walks also have a variety of other positive effects on a senior's physical and mental health. Some of these include:
Improved Mobility
Daily walking helps keep joints healthy by strengthening muscles around them, which improves joint flexibility. It also helps increase the range of motion, making everyday tasks easier—from picking up items off the floor or reaching higher shelves. Additionally, it helps improve balance, reducing the risk of falls.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Regular exercise increases circulation throughout the body, delivering oxygenated, fresh, nutrient-rich blood cells necessary for proper organ function. It also decreases fat deposits, which leads to a reduced risk of developing coronary artery disease, strokes, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and more in seniors.
Over time, seniors will notice improvements in strength, endurance, balance, coordination, muscle tone, and bone density. These factors are essential in maintaining a quality life, especially during senior years.
Improved Cognitive Health
Regular exercise boosts the production of hormones and neurotransmitters responsible for sending signals to the brain. This allows you to think faster, remember better, and solve problems.
Reduced Stress
While exercising, you release endorphins, the hormones responsible for feeling happy, content, and relaxed. This hormone boost triggers a sense of accomplishment and adds purpose to your day.
Other Benefits of Daily Walks
In addition to the physical benefits, daily walking can also provide an opportunity for social interaction. Taking a walk with a friend or family member is an excellent way to spend time together and catch up while getting some exercise at the same time.
Safety Considerations for Daily Walks
When it comes to going on daily walks, safety should always come first. You want to make sure the route is safe and not too strenuous. For seniors who are just starting a walking routine, short walks at a slow pace should be taken until their body adjusts and strengthens over time. Always wear the appropriate clothing that covers exposed skin.
Choosing the Right Footwear
It's wise to have proper footwear while walking. Comfortable shoes help maintain proper posture while avoiding blisters, calluses, or other issues.
Shoes that provide cushioning support help reduce the impact of the foot striking hard surfaces. Additional arch support offers better stability. This can help prevent injuries such as sprains or strains in ankles, knees, and hips.
Select lightweight, breathable materials, preferably those designed specifically for activities such as running or tennis. You want to check the fit often to ensure the shoes are still the correct size, adjust the laces, and tie or loosen them if needed.
Choose Senior Helpers McKinney When You Need a Walking Partner
Walking is an excellent way to improve your senior’s physical, mental and emotional health. Senior Helpers McKinney provides companion care services so your elderly loved one doesn't have to walk alone. Our experienced staff can also help you choose safe routes and provide advice on how to select appropriate footwear for maximum comfort and safety during your walks in McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Prosper, or Wylie. Contact us today to learn more about our services!