Staying Physically Active as You Age

Mobility decreases as you age. As we get older, our bodies change. Our muscles become weaker, bones become brittle, and joints stiffen. This makes it harder to stay fit and healthy. - www.wilsonvalis.com

How often should I exercise? What kind of exercises should I do? Is cardio or strength training better?

Exercise helps us live longer, healthier lives. The benefits of regular exercise include lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, osteoporosis, depression, anxiety, and obesity.

You might get a bit sluggish as you age since your energy levels may naturally decrease. But staying physically active as you age is a necessity, so your body keep up! Being physically active can help you avoid a lot of chronic diseases such aching joints, as these can lead to other illnesses, such as osteoarthritis. There are many ways to avoid joint pain; build some muscle, shrink your belly, eliminate the junk food, and drink lots of water. Heart failure is another result of unhealthy eating and a concern as we naturally age. If you are a senior, there are things you can do to improve your outlook. These simple daily routines can contribute to better mobility and overall body wellness:

Keep exercising. Exercising is the best way to get in shape as well as to stay fit. No matter how much you might fail while trying out, just don't give up because exercise is crucial to stay healthy with aging. Early morning stretching is a great way to prepare the body to stay loose and pain free. Stiffness and loss of motion in your hands may be the beginnings of arthritis so staying loose is really important.  

Stay hydrated. With aging, seniors need to keep their bodies hydrated since they are sometimes on medications which can dehydrate the body and require more energy to deal with their side effects. Drink more water and healthy juices while avoiding sugary drinks, this will help keep the body hydrated without the negative effects of sugar. 

Eat healthy. For more energy and to stay physically active, a proper diet with a suitable number of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals is key. Eat smaller portions, avoid snacking on junk and limit the processed foods. 

Take a rest. Working out and exercising regularly is good, but make sure to have a day off and not be too harsh on your body. Rest is much needed when exercising, so build in some relaxation time. 

These and a lot of other factors can be difficult when seniors live alone. Elder Friends Concierge Services, LLC. offers home assistance, aging care, and a lot more to keep your elderly parents and grandparents engaged and active. Our team will develop a unique plan including all the safe and healthy activities to keep your senior loved one busy, active, and engaged.