Practice Grace with Yourself
One of the greatest challenges we face when aging is the reduction of mobility. Everyone will reach a point in life where physical limitations require lifestyle changes to avoid injury. What this shift looks like is different for everyone. We know change can be scary. With support, seniors can acknowledge physical limitations, and learn to respect themselves by enjoying new things. Whether an exercise routine needs to be increased or reduced, seniors need to be mindful of the best and safest activities for their body types.
Low Impact is Key
Low impact activities are healthy for joints, improve mobility, and burn calories to support a healthy metabolism. Daily mobility is the best way to keep bones and joints healthy, muscles strong, and immunity high. A good rule of thumb is at least 30 minutes of movement every day. This can be broken up into 10-15 minute sessions, or can even exceed 30 minutes. Do whatever works for you! Exercises should get the heart rate elevated, circulate fresh blood and oxygen throughout the entire body, and produce endorphins for a feel-good experience. Exercising also increases self-confidence and creates connections to new social circles. The benefits are truly endless. So, let’s encourage seniors to practice safe low impact exercises regularly in order to age gracefully.
Some of our favorite exercises for seniors include:
- Yoga
- Tai Chi
- Pilates
- Dancing
- Indoor cycling
- Elliptical
- Group fitness classes
- Sitting exercises
- Using light weights or resistance bands
- Walking
- Water aerobics
- Swimming
- Golf
- Tennis
Next week we will talk about how easy ways to commit to an exercise routine to keep you on track. In the meantime, if you know someone or are in need of senior care placement resources and support, reach out to us at sunwaysseniorliving.com.
How’s your gratitude practice going?
In case you missed it, a few weeks ago we provided resources to start a gratitude practice. Check them out here.
