Exercise is a powerful way for Livingston residents to stay healthy as they age. In fact, research has shown that a regular, moderate exercise routine reduces the risk of several chronic diseases and helps elderly people stay independent and strong for longer. Do you want to help your loved one start an exercise routine? We know it can be difficult to know the best way to encourage them. Here are seven tips to help you support your family member as they make exercise a regular part of their life.
Exercise Is a Powerful Way to Support Health
An important first step is understanding just how vital it is to stay active. Working out can improve overall health and sense of well-being in many different ways. For example, a regular exercise program has been shown to improve quality of life as well as physical fitness. The National Council on Aging explains that these are just a few of the benefits of an exercise program for elderly people:
- Fights Chronic Disease. A growing body of research shows that exercise helps reduce the risk of many chronic diseases that are common in the elderly. For example, exercise can lower their risk of colon cancer, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Additionally, exercise even seems to reduce markers of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Improves Immunity. Moderate exercise has been shown to lower the risk of acute respiratory illness. In fact, people over 60 have fewer sick days when they exercise regularly.
- Boosts Mood. Working out regularly reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression and makes people feel more relaxed. Ultimately, it improves a person’s sense of overall well-being.
- Relieves Osteoarthritis Pain. An exercise plan that’s designed to support someone with arthritis should include weight training, low-impact cardiovascular exercise, and stretching. Together, they’ve been shown to reduce the stiffness and pain of arthritis.
- Fights Bone Loss. Strength training and weight-bearing exercise help prevent the bone loss that’s typical with aging. As a result, stronger bones reduce the risk of debilitating fractures and help maintain balance.
How to Encourage Your Loved One to Start an Exercise Routine
Clearly, having a regular exercise routine is worth the time and effort. However, getting started on a program can be difficult. Your loved one doesn’t have to figure it out on their own. You can encourage them to make a habit of exercise. For example, here are some ways to support them.
- Consult a doctor before starting any exercise program. They can ensure that it’s safe for them to work out. In addition, a physician can offer advice about the best kinds of exercise for them.
- Work with a qualified fitness trainer or healthcare professional to create a moderate exercise plan that incorporates weight training, cardio, balance training, and flexibility exercises.
- Make sure there are plenty of healthy snacks and easy-to-grab servings of water, so they can stay well hydrated and fueled.
- Start slow and keep the effort at a moderate level. They only need 30 minutes of exercise a day to see results. In fact, they can even be broken up into smaller segments.
- Find social ways to exercise. For example, this might include a walking club, dance group, or exercise class for seniors. Any active social group can be a great way to encourage movement in a fun setting.
- Keep track of their progress. Measuring increases in strength, energy, or flexibility can help your loved one stay motivated. Additionally, note other improvements that might get overlooked, such as benefits in their mood, sleep, or appetite.
- Leave reminders to help them stay on track. For example, post workout schedules or enlist the help of family members or home health aides to remind them can be helpful. Overall, loving reminders can be a great way to support someone in their new exercise plan.
For more tips, visit our “free downloads” section and download a copy of our Exercise Worksheets Booklet.
David York Home Healthcare Agency Helps Seniors in Livingston
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 downs. At David York Home Healthcare Agency, extraordinary service is what sets us apart from other companies in Livingston that provide in-home healthcare services.
DYA provides 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 (908) 373-5300. 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.
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