Pampering Plus Inc. Blog

Best Physical Activities & Exercise for Older Adults

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Physical activity is any endeavor that gets your body moving such as gardening, vacuuming, or taking the stairs vs. the elevator. Exercise is physical movement that is done as a purposeful, planned fitness activity such as walking on a treadmill, lifting weights, aerobic exercise, etc. Everyone can experience the health benefits of physical activity and exercise – age, abilities, ethnicity, shape, or size do not matter. 

Recommended Physical Activities & Exercises

There are lots of options for older adults who want to be physically active. It’s essential to consider individual health concerns when choosing an exercise strategy for an older person that can benefit their health. The following are some of the best types of physical activity and exercise for older adults:

Stretching Exercises 

• Stretching and increasing your flexibility is the best place to start with any planned exercise.
• Make slow and steady movements trying not to do any jerking or bouncing actions while stretching. It can cause muscles to tighten and may lead to injury or discomfort.
• When a stretching action requires the movement of a joint, always keep the joint slightly bent to avoid undue strain or pressure.

Tai Chi

• This ancient martial art has been lauded as one of the best exercises for older people since it focuses on both the mind and the body. 
• It is excellent for muscle coordination and mental clarity.

Balance Exercises (never attempt alone)

• Any exercise which incorporates balance is excellent for older individuals since it can help you stay independent as well as prevent a disability that may result from falling.
• 30% of people 65+ experience a fall each year. Half are repeat fallers who put their health and future mobility at great risk.
• Good examples are dance, cycling, tai chi or yoga.

Strength Exercises

• As we age, men and women gradually begin to lose substantial amounts of muscle mass each year.
• Strength exercises such as resistance training and light weightlifting, will improve your ability to use your muscles.
• Increased strength increases your general ability to perform everyday tasks.

Endurance/Aerobic Exercises

• Endurance exercises are any activity which increase your heart rate and you will breathe faster and more deeply, for an extended period.
• Light to moderate intensity cardio workouts like brisk walking, cycling or swimming are great for improving heart health.
• Start out at a lower level and work your way up gradually.

Physical Activity

• Older individuals can also incorporate regular physical activity in addition to exercise. 
• Walking the dog, raking the yard and playing with grandchildren are all helpful for keeping elderly individuals active!
  

Improve Your Ability to Remain Independent 

There are many actions we can take to live a long, healthy and happy life in body, mind and spirit. As we age, it’s important to protect bones, joints, and muscles – they support the body and help us move. Being active is a huge part of living healthy but sometimes we need a little motivation to get moving in the right direction. The in-home health care aides from Pampering Plus are excellent caregivers and offer conversation, companionship and support during regular physical activity and exercising. 

Pampering Plus Inc Caregivers Provide Attention & Care Beyond Compare

We are there to help with everyday tasks but also strive to develop genuine caring relationships. Our caregivers can assist with bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, ambulating and more to keep your aging loved one active and enjoying life. If you or a loved one needs extra help or support, give us a call at 215-881-8902 or click to contact us online. The dependable staff at Pampering Plus Inc. is here to help ensure continued good health and hygiene!