The Importance Of Physical Activity For Seniors

Senior Exercise  |  June 24, 2020

What Every Senior Needs to Know About the Importance of Exercise and Physical Activity

Physical Activity For Seniors | Countless studies have proven that exercise plays a pivotal role in maintaining physical and mental strength in senior years, contributing to a longer and better life. Even small amounts of regular physical activity help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy and vitality.

The CDC estimates that four out of the five most expensive health conditions in aging adults could be prevented or managed with sufficient physical activity. Sadly, only about 35% of adults over 65 include some type of physical exercise in their daily routine.

The Benefits of Physical Activity for Seniors

Regular movement can help your senior loved one to maintain muscle tone and bone health, build stamina, and lead a vibrant, healthier life while continuing to live independently at home for years to come. By engaging in senior-friendly exercises of their choice, your parent can expect to:

• Improve mental health
• Prevent or improve symptoms of already existing conditions such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosis
• Reduce the severity of pain and stiffness associated with arthritis
• Decrease the risk of falls and improve balance and gait

Seniors starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. A healthcare professional can determine the best way to move forward and recommend adequate, low-impact activities for Mom or Dad, so make sure they sit down with their doctor before introducing any big changes to their lifestyle.

Types of Physical Activity for Seniors

There are numerous ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, and stretching into their routine and most of these exercises can be performed in the comfort of your loved one’s home with very little effort. Some great exercise ideas include:

Aerobic – Aerobic exercise, dancing, or walking in place are great ways to improve heart health and lose weight.

Strength-building exercises – Many easy strength-building exercises can be performed with common household items or by using body weight, so no fancy or expensive equipment is needed to get your loved one started.

Stretching – Not only does stretching prevent soreness after exercising but it also significantly increases flexibility and range of motion. What is more, tons of senior-friendly stretching exercise routines can be found online and performed at home.

Balance exercises – Balance exercises, including Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact regimens, help prevent falls, improve mobility, and contribute to boosting overall health.

Comfort Keepers® is the Best Senior Home Care Provider in Vancouver, BC

When it comes to arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver, Comfort Keepers is the preferred choice for many families. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care, End of Life Care, Respite Care, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Interactive Caregiving™

Comfort Keepers®’s trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Our philosophy is to elevate the human spirit and our caregivers will be there every step of the way to ensure your loved one has a better quality of life. Personal and empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. Learn more about our unique service which offers personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers Vancouver office.

Comfort Keepers® Brings You The Best Home Care Assistance Right Where You Live.

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide home care throughout Vancouver that keeps seniors safe in their homes. We provide home care for the seniors of Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Langley, Maple Ridge, and Richmond please call (604) 689-8609. 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver has been accredited with Exemplary Standing with Accreditation Canada. Accreditation is an intensive process in which industry experts examine an organization’s processes, policies, and procedures against a set of quality standards. To achieve accredited status, Comfort Keepers offices met or exceeded the rigorous standards for Home Care companies, as defined by Accreditation Canada. 

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