As people age, they have a greater risk of lapsing into a sedentary lifestyle, whether due to limited mobility or lack of peer connection. Unfortunately, this can negatively affect their physical and mental health in numerous ways. Thus, when you take on the caregiver role for a loved one, it’s important to find different activities that will help them remain active. Here are a few ideas to keep seniors moving and stimulated.

How to Help Aging Adults Stay Active

1. Encourage Social Interaction

One of the main reasons the older generation becomes inactive is because they live in isolation. Their kids are grown up with families of their own, spouses may pass away, and long-time friends often move. You can help your loved one stay connected with others by setting up weekly social visits or video calls with relatives, neighbors, and previous co-workers. 

2. Maintain an Exercise Routine

Regular exercise can help seniors improve their strength and mobility, as well as lessen feelings of depression. Even going for a short walk around the block with their caregiver a few times a week will promote better blood flow, balance, and agility. You can also explore different workouts, such as swimming, aerobics, and yoga, which offer many low-impact options for any fitness level.

3. Play Games and Puzzles 

It’s just as important to engage your loved one’s mind in activity as their body. Playing games and putting together puzzles is great for preventing cognitive decline. There is a wide variety of options available on the market that cater to an array of interests and abilities. Board games, video games, and puzzles also require movement that helps seniors preserve the dexterity of their hands and fingers. 

If you or a loved one needs help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL), which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. There’s also the option of arranging for private duty nurse visits if you do not qualify for Medicaid. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific needs, or visit them online to learn more about their caregiver services.