As a senior care provider, your primary responsibility is to ensure the health of your aging loved one. Fitness and an active lifestyle are cornerstones of wellness at any age, but this is especially true for seniors. Physical fitness can reduce the risk of many issues common among older adults, including heart problems, diabetes, loss of muscle mass and strength, and lack of flexibility. These four tips will help you encourage your older loved one to exercise safely and improve their quality of life in the process.

4 Senior Care Fitness Tips

1. Talk to Their Doctor

Many seniors have physical limitations which may prevent them from partaking in particular exercises. For instance, if a senior has bad knees, they may need to avoid movements that put pressure on those joints. If high blood pressure is an issue, they may need to be extra cautious when partaking in cardio. Talk to their doctor for ideas as to what types of exercise they can do safely.

2. Make Sure They Have the Right Gear

Your senior loved one should be properly equipped for whatever physical activity they’re performing. This includes comfortable clothing that’s easy to put on, as well as supportive shoes. Sturdy, supportive shoes are essential to provide arch support and reduce friction on the joints. Make sure the shoes are slip-resistant to reduce the risk of falls.

3. Make It a Social Activity

Exercise is more fun with friends, and socialization is essential to a high quality of life. Find activities your senior can do with others, whether they’re going for a walk with a neighbor each morning or joining a class at the local community center. 

4. Start Slow

If your senior loved one hasn’t led an active lifestyle in the past, it’s essential to take things slow. Trying to do too much at once increases the risk of injury as well as burnout. Make fitness a part of their routine, maintain a consistent schedule, and gradually increase the difficulty of exercises to build strength and flexibility. Their doctor can offer more tips based on their physical condition and medical history.

If you need a professional senior care provider, turn to Visiting Angels in Toms River, NJ. Their team of licensed, bonded, and insured caregivers provide exceptional elderly care, including independent living and home health care. Call (732) 240-1050 to find out how they can help your senior loved one. You can also visit their website to learn more about their range of services.