Exercise For Seniors Is Important

We will all grow old one day, advancing age need not always deliver a bundle of health problems. Seniors love to be independent, they get stressed out when they have to rely on others to perform normal tasks. While this dependence might be inevitable in some cases, it is something that can be managed in most. Leisure and exercise are essential for human beings of all ages, they remain equally important as we grow old. Seniors seem to slow down on physical activity, absence of a daily job routine can be a major cause. As you grow old you begin to require less of everything, this leads to a more sedentary lifestyle. 

Advantages Of Exercise:

• Exercise keeps you physically active and keeps muscles flexible. 
• Strength gaining exercise can keep you independent and fit. 
• Group exercises like jogging, walking and cycling build social relationships. 
• Sharpens the mind and keeps memory and reflexes in better shape. 
• Improves the condition of the heart and lungs.
• Physical activity can keep away bone related problems. 
• Regular exercise can improve cholesterol and blood sugar numbers. 
• Seniors who exercise regularly have a lower chances of falling. 
• A physically strong body responds better to most medications. 
• Exercising outdoors can substantially relieve mental stress. 
• Seniors who are physically fit have a positive attitude. 
• We all sleep better after a session of planned physical activity. 

You might be surprised to know that, the level and intensity of physical exercise can be adjusted for every age and medical condition. Older people confined to a wheel chair can perform arm stretching and should movements to exercise themselves. Supervision might be called for in some cases. Experts agree that giving attention to exercise and physical activity from an early age, helps as age advances. Consider this to be an investment for the future. 

More importantly remember that, it is never too late to start. And keep in mind that both leisure and exercise have added significance for seniors. Let us consider some leisure activities and see how they can be of benefit to seniors both, physically and mentally. We will then talk about exercise. 

Leisure: Seniors with a plan in place for physical activity and exercise, can consider leisure activities for purely mental relaxation and social interaction. Something as simple as meeting friends in the same age group and having tea together, can be surprisingly relaxing. Try to keep the conversation light, probably share some general interest news item. When visiting a coffee shop, choose one that is not overcrowded as such places, are a cool place to sit down and leisurely enjoy your coffee. Small coffee shops with a few chairs and tables often add a personal touch to their service, you could just give your order and relax in your chair. The coffee would be served right on the table. If time and space permits, grab one of your favorite books as you walk to the shop. When it is time to do some grocery shopping, choose a shop or supermarket that is housed in a spacious mall if possible. Walk around and stretch your legs, if you find a spacious food court take some time to sit there even if, just to sip a bottle of water. Complete your shopping and come home more relaxed and remember that, you got some tidy physical activity packed in too. Look for groups at the church or in the neighborhood, consider joining them for a meet.  

Exercise: Seniors who have not been exercising for a while and those undergoing any sort of medical treatment, should talk to their doctor before, embarking on an exercise plan. No matter what the medical condition or age, there is always some form of exercise that seniors can do. It is rightly said that the maximum benefits, will be felt by seniors who have never had any sort of physical activity for a long time. Walking, jogging and swimming are great exercises. You should add a few stretches before or after your regular exercise section. When  you exercise, your muscles become warm and show better flexibility  - this is when stretching and bending are best done. Check your neighborhood for exercise groups that, go together for walks or jogs, you could even try cycling with friends if you are fit enough. It is a good idea to  start with low intensity and then move it up, once you feel more comfortable. The most important thing is the make an exercise schedule and stick to it. Make sure that you stop immediately should  you feel any discomfort or pain, get in touch with your doctor and discuss the event. We have listed some popular exercises for seniors below, make sure that you pick your choice depending on age and physical condition. 

Exercise Ideas:

• Walking normal and fast pace. 
• Jogging and running. 
• Swimming and cycling. 
• Playing a slow game of tennis.
• Pushing a lawn mower. 
• Low to moderate weight training. 
• Stretches and bends. 
• Practicing yoga or tai-chi. 
• Joining an exercise group. 

Physical Activity: We all know that exercise is one of the most effective forms of physical activity but, we wish to highlight another issue here. Seniors often spend most of their time at home, they are either seated for many hours reading a book or watch T.V shows in a seated or lying down posture. It is important to get up and walk around for a few minutes after having been sedentary for 20 to 30 minutes. You don't have to go outdoors to do that, just stroll around in the house or the room. Seniors who develop a hobby or those that share their knowledge or ideas, are less likely to keep falling asleep due to boredom. If you need to pick a coffee or shop at a place nearby, try to walk and overcome the temptation to start the car. When at a department store, take some time to stroll around before starting to shop. 

Caution: Here are some ideas to keep you safe and motivated when exercising or taking part in any leisure activity. Firstly, do not begin an exercise plan without consulting your medical adviser. Remember that, you are going to benefit both in physical and mental terms, by taking part in that activity. Try to stay active socially, consider voluntary help and such activities as they make you feel useful. Dress well based on the activity that you wish to do. For example, never cycle without wearing a helmet. Stay in warm clothes if you wish to go out for a walk or jog in chilly weather. Shoes are not meant only to keep feet clean, the right shoe can protect ankles and reduce the chances of exercise induced injury. If you are on any diabetes related medication, keep a watch on your blood sugar levels before, during and after your exercise. Forming a group with neighbors for company is an excellent idea, it keeps you motivated and adds a much valued measure of safety.