The perks of engaging in physical activity do not decline as we age, and it’s extremely essential to have ability-appropriate workout routines for older adults. Even those who are confined to a bed or are wheelchair-bound have a wide range of opportunities available to strengthen, develop resistance, and improve flexibility.

The initial step is always to consult the physician to get a recommendation on the most beneficial exercises and activities for older persons that fit with their activity level and medical history. Initially, exercising even for as little as a couple of minutes every day, repeated several times during the day, can considerably enhance the senior’s health and wellbeing.

Below are several examples of the best workout routines for older adults:

• Aerobics: If whole body movements aren’t feasible, exercises from a sitting position can be substituted to develop cardio strength. When possible, beneficial choices include:
  • Swimming or water aerobics
  • Dancing
  • Walking
  • Tai Chi
  • Bowling
• Resistance Exercises: To build and strengthen muscles, resistance exercises can be executed with elastic bands, which can be found in a variety of tensile strengths. The Journal of Gerontology: Biological Sciences shares that even just one day each week of resistance activity helps seniors retain independence and decrease the threat of injuries.
• Flexibility Exercises: Stretching exercises help improve flexibility and range of motion. Search for yoga classes at local senior or recreation centers.
• Alzheimer’s Exercises: In the earlier stages of dementia, a range of exercise opportunities is possible, and, with enhanced supervision and some adjustments, can be continued as the disease progresses. Since repetition is often comforting to those with Alzheimer’s disease, activities such as walking, riding a stationary bike, and folding laundry are helpful to both the senior's mental and physical state.

Encouraging your loved one to start and then stick with an exercise routine is integral to success. Try these tips to make it something enjoyable that he or she will look forward to:

• Join in an exercise program with the older adult. It’s always more fun to exercise with a buddy.
• Add favorite, upbeat music.
• Set aside dedicated time each and every day expressly for physical fitness, and make it a priority.
• Put in place incentives or rewards for reaching milestones.

For more tips on helping seniors increase activity levels, contact Help at Home Senior Care. Our expert in-home caregivers are knowledgeable in helping older individuals thrive and enhance their overall wellbeing, and we love nothing more than having the assurance that the older adults in our care are healthy and living life to the fullest! Reach out to us at (530) 885-7444 to learn more about how we provide the kind of senior care Grass Valley and other nearby areas choose first! For more information about all of the different communities we serve in California, please visit our Service Area page.