As long as it is adapted to ability and undertaken at an appropriate level of intensity, exercise can be safe and beneficial for older people, even those with multiple conditions or additional risk factors. As well as building strength, improving balance, and reducing stiffness, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can reduce symptoms of long-term conditions. Supervised exercise classes, chair yoga, and gentle walking are just some of the ways older adults of all abilities can improve their overall physical fitness safely.
Accessible Classes Encourage Movement
When accredited exercise classes are made available to older adults, significant improvement in physical fitness can be achieved in just 12 weeks.
Whether seniors live independently at home or in supported accommodation, supervised classes encouraging more movement, such as pilates or ballroom dancing, are gentle ways to keep fit without straining or risking injury.
They also offer the opportunity to try new activities in a comfortable environment while making new friends in the community.
Organized classes in aged care homes can be adapted to support participants of all abilities, including those with limited mobility or cognitive impairments. This means that all residents can enjoy the considerable health benefits of regular exercise.
Light Exercises at Home Improve Flexibility
Some older people may have limited mobility that prevents them from attending in-person classes or feel uncomfortable exercising in front of others.
However, safe and gentle exercise can still be incorporated into their daily routine at home. Chair yoga or other seated exercises allow participants to perform poses while sitting down or to use the back of a chair for balance and are suitable for all levels of ability.
They are particularly good for improving flexibility, and although they are effective on their own, they can also be used to build the strength, balance, and confidence to move on to other more vigorous activities.
Gentle Outdoor Walks Strengthen Bones
Walking is often underrated as a beneficial exercise. Still, it is a safe and easy way for older adults to manage their weight, improve muscle strength, and strengthen bones to prevent osteoporosis.
Stepping outside in daylight boosts vitamin D, essential for a healthy immune system, bone strength, and muscle function.
At the same time, walking in nature can also help reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing.
Walking aids such as sticks and rollators can assist elderly walkers who struggle with balance to get out and about safely, and well-fitting footwear with firm and slip-resistant soles can help all senior walkers maintain stability and minimize the risk of falls while walking.
Taking up gentle exercise brings many benefits to older adults of all abilities.
Joining an organized exercise class designed for seniors, practicing simple seated exercises at home, or enjoying the benefits of gentle walking are easy and safe ways to maintain a healthy weight, strengthen muscles, and improve flexibility.
