In Calgary, the beginning of spring doesn’t necessarily equate to the start of warm weather. However, for most of us, the excitement surrounding the return of warm and sunny days has begun. This is especially true for individuals who enjoy going for outdoor jogs. Daily exercise is important no matter the weather…although warmth and sunshine certainly help! Working out is important for us all, no matter our ages.
If you’re an older adult, you certainly aren’t encouraged to do any heavy weightlifting. However, there are many benefits to light exercise. Let’s discuss some of the top ones!
It increases bone strength.
Osteoporosis is a common problem for older adults. This is especially true for older women. It’s a condition that causes bones to break more easily. Not only do seniors lose bone mass and/or density as they age, their bones also lose calcium and other minerals. Exercise is an excellent way to help bones to stay strong. It also slows or prevents problems with muscles and joints, promoting better strength, balance and flexibility.
“Regular activity builds healthy bones and helps maintain bone strength in seniors,” notes Oregon’s Northwest Primary Care, “Exercise works on bones much like it works on muscles — by making them stronger. Because bone is living tissue, it changes in response to the forces placed upon it. When you exercise regularly, your bone adapts by building more cells and becomes denser.”
It improves cognitive function.
Exercise is most commonly associated with better overall physical health. But working out does a lot more than just make you physically stronger. It is known to improve brain function as well. Naturally, this is an important reason for seniors to remain active. Especially for those who battle with dementia, regular activity can help with cognitive skills.
“Regular physical activity and fine-tuned motor skills benefit cognitive function,” informs TheGreenFields.org, “Countless studies suggest a lower risk of dementia for physically active individuals, regardless of when you begin a routine.”
It promotes heart health.
Regular exercise for older adults can help to slow their sometimes-increased heart rates. As well, it lowers blood pressure, eases stress, improves oxygen intake and even boosts morale. Of course, maintaining a healthy body weight is another benefit of exercise that lessens strain on the heart. By remaining active, seniors can recover from illness quicker and reduce their needs for medication.
“Frequent physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease and enhances your cardiovascular health,” says Northwest Primary Care, “Adding a mix of cardio and strength training will give you an added boost of energy that will improve your heart health overall. However, underlying heart conditions and hereditary diseases will not go away as a result of exercising, but staying active can help you maintain a higher quality of life.”
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we do all we can to help older adults who can’t be as active as they would like. If you live with an elderly loved one who struggles with mobility issues, we would love to talk to you about our mobility solutions. They include stair lifts and wheelchair lifts among many others. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
