Face the following facts: As people age, there is a loss of muscle mass, strength, flexibility and bone. This leads to a loss of mobility and, therefore, independence. Regular exercise such as aerobics, strength training as well as balance and flexibility exercises can mitigate these negative effects. Now consider: By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be older than 65. A well-designed exercise plan can delay or prevent loss of functioning until the 90’s and longer. Now that’s motivation! Here’s some information about exercise for the elderly.
Afraid of Exercise for the Elderly
Many older Americans are afraid of exercise thinking that they will hurt themselves. However, strengthening muscles and improving flexibility, balance and bone density is the most beneficial thing you can do to prevent injuries and falls. Just make sure all exercises are approved by a medical and healthcare team and all should be good to go!
Goals for Exercise for the Elderly
An exercise regimen incorporating goals specific to the elderly client while taking into account their specific deficits is the most constructive way to develop an effective program. This is best accomplished using a fitness trainer who is acquainted with the elderly and their special needs. They have a sense of how much to push them along on the path of improving their strength. They also know how to deal with their unique flexibility and mobility. Employing a trainer for at least the first few sessions will also help solidify the plan of attack and ensure that the exercises are being done correctly. To reinforce the learning, make available ongoing videos. They will also make sure your senior is following the exercise routine appropriately.
Basically, you need about 30 minutes of exercise per day which can be broken into two 15 minute or three 10 minute intervals. If someone hasn’t exercised in awhile, it is best to start slowly with shorter, more frequent periods of exercise.
Be patient and remember it’s never too late to begin exercising. Every movement leads on the path of optimal physical health.
Activities should include some aerobic or cardiovascular work through activities like brisk walking, bicycling, swimming or even jogging. Strength training is great for enhancing balance to reduce the risk of falls and to help in general with getting up and down and generally all around. Yoga is a wonderful and relaxing form of exercise as is Tai Chi. For those who are able to get out, strength training can also be done using machines in a gym.
Good health and happiness to all!
David York Agency Can Help Seniors in Bay Ridge
David York Home Healthcare Agency has designed an Exercise Worksheets Booklet to ease the planning and tracking process. Please check out the packet here or on the resources page. We hope they will help better organize those who have made this momentous resolution and ring in true health for this New Year.
At David York Agency, we understand the many challenges and risks faced by the aging and elderly and are dedicated to providing care to support them through all of those ups and down. At David York Home Healthcare Agency, extraordinary service is what sets us apart from other companies in Bay Ridge that provide in home healthcare services.
DYA we could provide direction as to how to manage the total care of your senior loved one. Whatever your care needs, we are there for you, always striving to exceed your expectations. For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at (718) 376-7755. A free phone consultation can help you determine what services would meet your needs. We aim to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
For more helpful tips and information, check out our blog or contact us today.
