As people age, it is more important than ever to add exercise to their daily regimen. We have all heard how exercise and living a healthy lifestyle can add years to our lives. It can also help guarantee that the life we are living is enjoyable with a body that is flexible and moves freely. Rather than having joint aches and pains in your early senior years, with some effort you can have a flexible body that will cooperate with the life style you want to enjoy.
As we age, we start running into the following problems:
- Slower metabolism
- Stiff joints
- Bone loss
- Balance problems
- Reduced endurance
There are no quick fixes as we age. Some people try to slow the aging process by taking medications or getting injections, or through surgery such as face lifts and tummy tucks. Unfortunately for those who want fast results without having to put forth much effort, healthy eating and regular exercise have been proven to directly make a difference in keeping aging seniors looking and feeling younger longer.
When we engage in a daily exercise program, even if it is only walking or light movement, we are able to prolong the stiffness that plagues so many older people. We are able to accomplish daily tasks that we are less able to perform when we allow our body to stiff due to lack of exercise.
Daily stretches keep seniors flexible
One of the simplest exercises you can do is stretching. Whether you are standing, sitting, or lying down, you can stretch your body and therefore your muscles. Gentle stretches help keep your body limber so that you can continue to perform simple household tasks.
If you are new to exercising and not quite sure what to do, there are several options to choose from:
- Television. Early morning television often has a number of exercise options to choose from. You can find programs that include simple stretching to high-end aerobics, Zumba, Yoga, and any number of other types of exercise. Check out YouTube while you are at it. There may be a video you can follow for at no cost to you.
- DVDs or videos. Many inexpensive DVDs and videos are available at stores or for purchase online, although purchasing them locally saves shipping costs. You can usually find easy or beginner level exercises to help you with your stretches. If you feel like going further into an exercise program, it is there for you. You could also check with your local library if you want to try one out for size and at no cost to you.
- Senior center or local fitness center. Depending on where you live, there could be many options as far as exercise regimens for seniors. Some senior centers have an exercise program as do many fitness centers. Fitness centers also have machines that will allow you a gentle stretch. Check locally for a program that you consider safe for your health and ability.
Whether you choose to stretch for one minute or ten to twenty minutes, any movement will help you stay flexible and keep your muscles strengthened. Stretching can also help you combat balance problems. Any activity that you can do as a senior will help you stay more active – mentally and physically.
4 responses so far ↓
1 Gregg Evans // Feb 1, 2012 at 10:34 am
Very information. I can relate this one to my grandfather. He’s really old but he do have constant exercise. He is still strong of his age and I do admire him.
2 Edie // Feb 1, 2012 at 11:27 am
Gregg, it’s amazing how strong people can remain in their senior years if they keep working out. They may need lighter weights and less stressful workouts, but they can at least stay more mobile and healthy than those who do not workout. God bless your grandfather for keep up with his exercise regimen.
3 Monica Weber // Feb 3, 2012 at 5:41 am
My parents don’t have their constant exercise. They are too busy working, a reason why they are suffering from stiff joints sometimes. But they do wake up early in the morning. I think I have to make them include exercise as their daily routine. Thanks for sharing this.
4 Edie // Feb 3, 2012 at 11:01 am
The type of exercise isn’t as important for the very elderly as it is to get up and do something every day. Just simple movements or walking will be better than doing nothing at all. Hopefully you can encourage your parents to keep moving!
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