Moving around is vital to a senior’s mobility, blood pressure levels, and memory. Exercising a few days each week can increase your aging loved one’s ability to stay independent longer. Here are some of the best fitness activities for seniors and the benefits of each exercise.
1. Yoga
The elderly are at higher risk for developing viruses and bacterial infections because immune system function decreases with age. However, doing physical exercises like yoga can strengthen the immune system and stave off various illnesses seniors are susceptible to, such as the common cold and pneumonia. Yoga techniques work out the body and reduce stress, which is one of the primary factors associated with a weakened immune system. Doing yoga also boosts heart health and lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis, and diabetes.
Seniors with health conditions or mobility issues can still get the benefits of exercise, especially with the help of trained professional caregivers. Reston in-home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
2. Walking in Place
If your parent prefers to exercise inside, as opposed to walking around the neighborhood or joining the local gym, walking in place is the perfect activity. Your loved one can walk in place in the living room or other areas of the home with adequate space. Walking in place boosts the ability to perform daily activities, such as carrying groceries into the house, going up and down the stairs, and completing household chores. Performing this exercise also strengthens the legs and resolves muscular imbalances.
3. Pilates
Doing Pilates increases balance and flexibility in the elderly and boosts muscular control of the limbs. Pilates builds strength and provides the energy to perform various movements that help with weight and stress management. Joining a Pilates class can also help seniors boost their health and prevent boredom, which can lower the risk of depression and isolation.
If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. Reston home care service professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, in-home care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.
4. Resistance Band Workouts
It’s vital for seniors to do as many strengthening exercises as they can, especially older adults who don’t move as much as they did when they were younger. Resistance band workouts can enhance core and back strength as well as hand coordination. Your loved one can have better grip strength, allowing him or her to perform daily activities like driving, bathing, using the bathroom, and cooking. Exercises with bands can be performed while sitting or standing. Either way, these workouts can boost spine health and stave off posture and balance issues.
5. Squats
Older adults who are in shape can complete squats and maintain good form. Encourage your loved one to start slowly by using a sturdy table or chair when squatting, then keeping the arms extended and bending the knees to a sitting position. Moving up and down burns calories, enhances breathing techniques, and boosts lower body strength. For the greatest benefits, your loved one should try to do at least two sets of 10 squats a few times each week in addition to other exercises.
Seniors who need assistance to exercise safely can benefit from the help of a trained professional caregiver. Elderly home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. Reach out to us at Assisting Hands Home Care Reston if you need compassionate professional care for your loved one. Call us today at 703-556-8983.