- What are the benefits of exercise for the elderly?
There are many reasons why we tend to slow down and become more sedentary as we age. This can be due to health issues, weight issues or pain or fear of falling. Or you might think exercise isn’t for you. But as you age, an active lifestyle becomes more important than ever to your health.
A recent Swedish study found that physical activity has been the number one contributor to longevity, extending your lifespan even if you don’t start exercising until old age. But being active doesn’t just mean adding years to your life, it’s adding life to your years.
Exercise can help increase energy, maintain independence, protect the heart, and manage symptoms of disease or pain, as well as weight. Regular exercise is also good for mood and memory. It’s never too late to find simple and enjoyable ways to become more active, improve your mood and attitude, and enjoy all the physical and mental benefits of exercise.
Also Read : The role of behavior in physical fitness levels
- The benefits of exercise in the elderly
As an older adult, these exercises can help you:
Maintain or lose weight. As your metabolism naturally slows with age, maintaining a healthy weight can become a challenge. Regular exercise can help increase metabolism and increase muscle mass, helping the body burn more calories.
Reduce the impact of disease and chronic disease. People who exercise tend to have improved immune and digestive function, better blood pressure and bone density, and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, osteoporosis, and certain cancers.
Improves the balance of flexibility and mobility. Exercise can improve your flexibility and posture, which can help you balance and coordinate and reduce your risk of falling. Strength training can also help relieve symptoms of chronic conditions like arthritis.
- Mental health benefits
Exercise can also help you:
Improve your sleep quality. Quality sleep is critical to your overall health as you age. Regular activity can help you fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and wake up feeling more energized and refreshed.
Improve your mood and self-confidence. Exercise is a huge stress reliever, producing endorphins that can actually help reduce feelings of sadness, depression, and anxiety. Being active and feeling strong can also help you feel more confident.
Improve Your Brain Function Activities like Sudoku or crossword puzzles can help keep your brain active, but few come close to the beneficial effects of exercise on the brain. It can help diversify brain functions, such as multitasking and creativity, and help prevent memory loss, cognitive decline, and dementia. Being active can even help slow the progression of brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
- Create a Balanced Exercise Program
Staying active is not a science. Remember, mixing different types of physical activity can help keep your workouts fun and improve your overall health. The key is to find your favorite activity based on the four fitness blocks. these are:
- Balance
What it is: Balance exercises help maintain standing and stability, whether you’re stationary or moving. Try tai chi yoga and posture exercises to build confidence in your balance.
Why it’s good for you: Improve your balance and walking quality. It also reduces the risk or fear of falling.
