Routine physical exercise is the best thing for preserving the health and overall functionality of the human body. It regulates blood pressure, aids in lowering cholesterol, stimulates a robust metabolism, and fosters mood balance while providing stress relief. Following are some of the top benefits that seniors can gain by living active lifestyles presented by the Albuquerque senior home care professionals at Home Care Assistance.
Prevents Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis
For women, bone loss is a serious concern during the later stages of life. A balanced fitness plan that contains both cardiovascular and strength-building elements will both preserve and increase bone density. This can be as simple as walking with a small pair of ankle weights, cycling and performing lunges or squats, or taking a dance class that provides a challenging whole-body workout.
Staves Off Isolation and Depression
Physically active seniors are often socially active as well. Whether they go to the gym, take classes at senior recreation centers, or meet up with friends for long walks in the park, seniors who exercise tend to have far better levels of mental health, especially if they’ve been doing so their whole lives. Their bodies produce more mood-boosting endorphins and they have the regular benefit of social engagement.
Supports Good Brain Health
Blood flow to the brain delivers vital nutrients and oxygen. Without good blood flow in the topmost portion of the body, more brain cells are likely to die and memory and general cognition can suffer. In addition to fighting against gravity to deliver sufficient amounts of blood to the brain, the circulatory system also has to contend with the hardening of arteries, plaque, and other health and age-related developments that have a negative impact on circulation. Working out helps seniors avoid all of these things. With clean, healthy arteries and a strong circulatory system, active seniors can enjoy good brain health well into their golden years. More importantly, people who have engaged in physical fitness activities throughout the years will have had the lifelong benefit of optimal circulation and its far-ranging benefits. These include a much lower likelihood for developing age-related degenerative brain diseases.
Provides Weight Management
Weight management can become increasingly problematic as the metabolism slows down. Exercise is the best thing for a sluggish metabolism as it helps the body burn more calories and fat. Active seniors are less likely to put on weight as they age and they’re also less likely to experience weight-related health issues like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
Preserves Mobility, Balance, and Coordination
If you don’t use it, you really do lose it and this is true about nearly all aspects of physical motion. Active adults can maintain greater levels of flexibility, motor coordination, overall mobility, and balance by simply putting their bodies in motion. Best of all, it is never too late to get started. Encouraging seniors to add fitness activities to their daily routines will often help them reclaim lost skills in each of these areas.
As we age, it can become increasingly difficult to maintain a healthy diet and regular physical activity. If you aging loved one could use additional support, turn to Home Care Assistance. All of our caregivers utilize the Balanced Care Method, which promotes nutrition, fitness, and a sense of calm and purpose. To learn more about BCM or any of our care services, including hourly and live-in, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and dementia home care in Albuquerque, call a dedicated Care Manager at 505-798-0800.
