Exercise, though important at any age, has unique advantages for seniors. Staying physically active is essential to elderly care, improving balance and strength to reduce the risk of falls and potentially delaying the onset of osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes. Here's how you can receive these benefits while still working out safely. 

A Guide to Fitness for Seniors

1. Try Low-Impact Activities

Seniors are often more prone to injuries resulting from strenuous exercise. Reduce the risk of getting hurt and put minimal stress on the body by staying active with low-impact activities. Water aerobics, dancing, or brisk walks get the heart pumping without straining the muscles and joints. You could also try light stretching and gentle yoga to increase flexibility and agility. To tone your muscles and increase your strength, try lifting lightweight dumbbells. 

2. Know Your Limits

It's normal to feel sore following a workout, but avoid pushing yourself beyond your limits. Otherwise, you could experience muscle strain and joint swelling. If you ever feel aches while exercising, break up your workouts into shorter intervals throughout the day. Alternatively, you should replace a particular activity if it consistently causes discomfort. In this case, try another exercise that doesn't put as much stress on the body. 

3. Make Exercise Social 

It's less challenging to stick with workout routines that double as social activities. Daily walks with a friend and catching up on each other's lives will help pass the time and make exercising more fun. 

You could also attend group fitness classes such as Zumba, water aerobics, or yoga. These sessions allow you to meet new people, offering more motivation to stay active. 

4. Reward Yourself

Positive reinforcement can assist with establishing an exercise regimen that supports your elderly care. Before each workout, plan a small reward for completing a routine. For instance, you can treat yourself to a favorite meal, relaxing bath, or enjoyable movie. Having the prize in mind gives you something to look forward to while working out. 

Stay active as you age with help from Country Villa Assisted Living in Omro, Freedom, Pulaski, and Little Chute, WI. This nursing home and assisted living facility offers plenty of activities for seniors, along with clean, comfortable accommodations and onsite amenities. Call their Omro location at (920) 685-0607 to ask about current vacancies or schedule a tour of the grounds. Visit the website to learn more about their elderly care services.