Every person has needs that have to be met to ensure a happy and satisfying life. These needs include: mental health, physical health, social life, and spiritual life. As a person ages certain activities or personal needs become more difficult to be met. One of these needs for many persons in the aging population is staying fit and active.
For the seniors the recommended amount and types of physical fitness varies depending on each person’s cognitive and physical abilities. Typically it is recommended that each senior takes part in at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day if possible. Most Physicians, however, say that an individual should do as much as makes the person feel good physically and mentally. This could be a swift 10 to 20 minute walk or following along to a chair yoga video off of YouTube. Remember that no matter what your ability is, to start off slowly and build up and to never push your body to hard or past what you think you are able to do. If a person over works their body they are more likely to injure themselves which in older age becomes more of a concern because an injury can lead to more issues and illness.
There are many benefits for anyone who begin to increase the amount of exercise they add to their life. Besides overall improved health, individuals will also see positive change in:
· Improving physical abilities for everyday tasks
· Reducing fall risk because of improved strength and balance
· Slowing mental decline
· Reducing depression
· Improving heart health
· Getting a sense of purpose and accomplishment while staying engaged and occupied
· Improving sleep and reducing sun downing symptoms
· Reducing constipation
One of the top reasons people tend not to exercise is because they do not know how. Here are some ideas that are all great ways for anyone but especially seniors to get their daily dose of exercise.
· Gardening
· Chair yoga
· Walking
· Dancing
· Bowling groups
· Swimming
· Going to the gym/exercise classes
Many of these activities can be done at home. Chair yoga for example can be found on online by following along to YouTube videos, the same can be done for dancing but you can also turn on your favourite song and free style dance through your home.
It is important that as people age they keep up with some level of exercise so that they may remain mobile for as long as possible. If you would like to find more ways to improve your health and stay active can you speak with your doctor or any health professional.