Stay active and healthy: exercises for the elderly
As we age, it’s important to stay active and maintain our health. Regular exercise plays a vital role in promoting well-being and quality of life for the elderly. In this article, we discuss the best forms of exercise for the elderly, how to exercise safely, why exercise is beneficial and how much exercise per day is recommended.
How can the elderly move safely?
For the elderly, it is important to incorporate exercise in a safe and appropriate way. Always start slowly and possibly with a warm-up to warm up the muscles to prevent them from becoming overloaded. It’s wise to consult with a physical therapist before starting a new exercise program. One form of exercise that is often recommended is virtual cycling. This makes standard cycling on an exercise bike a lot more fun and safe. Online resources, such as this article featuring the most fun games to get moving, can also provide ideas for fun and motivating exercise activities.
What is the best exercise for seniors?
There are a lot of different and fun activities that are great for exercise programs. For example, walking is a low-threshold activity that is easy to do. Cycling is another activity that is very popular among the elderly and is often performed. However, for the elderly who have worsened mobility, these are not realistic activities. Virtual cycling is the solution. You still enjoy the beautiful views and birds singing. But it’s a lot safer and cycling with pedal assistance makes it more endurable. Would you like to know more about Bike Labyrinth? Request our free brochure.
Why is exercise good for the elderly?
Exercise offers numerous benefits for the elderly. It helps improve circulation, which in turn can contribute to a healthy heart and optimal blood pressure. Regular physical activity strengthens muscles and bones, which reduces the risk of falls and broken bones. In addition, exercise can improve moods and reduce stress, which is essential for maintaining positive mental health, as described in the article aging: how to stay happy.
How much should seniors exercise per day?
The amount of recommended exercise varies, but generally health guidelines aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, spread over several days. This involves exercise that causes the heart to beat faster and the circulation to speed up. This can be supplemented with muscle-strengthening exercises for all major muscle groups twice a week. Remember that listening to the body is essential; start slowly and gradually increase the intensity.
Physical activity is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle for the elderly. It provides physical benefits, enhances mental health and contributes to an increased quality of life. By choosing appropriate forms of exercise and following the advice of physical therapists, seniors can enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle, such as exercise through fun games and finding happiness as they age.
