Tai chi is a non-impact exercise involving a series of fluid, controlled movements that can be performed in any spacious, peaceful environment. In addition to being both meditative and cathartic, this activity provides a wealth of physiological benefits. For seniors, it’s one of the best ways to boost physical fitness and overall health without subjecting the joints and bones to excess stress. Following are a few undeniable benefits seniors can experience by practicing tai chi regularly.
Promotes Deep Breathing
Proper oxygen delivery has a very calming effect on the mind and body. However, few people are trained to practice deep and mindful breathing. Tai chi is designed to make participants more conscious of their breath and how to inhale and exhale for optimal oxygen delivery.
Increases Stability & Balance
Tai chi is a very balance-focused exercise. It helps people enhance their posture, use their knees, hips, and core muscles effectively, and connect with the surfaces they’re standing on. It’s great for seniors with stability issues and moderate loss of mobility.
Seniors who need help doing tai chi or performing another type of exercise should consider professional in-home care. Elder 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.
Boosts Focus
Posture and form are two critical aspects of tai chi. There’s a correct way to perform each movement. Focusing on achieving proper form while using detailed mental imagery to master various poses can increase the mind/body connection so planned and expected actions are physically easier to achieve.
Doing tai chi and other types of exercise can help seniors maintain their independence. Living independently is important for seniors who want to maintain a high quality of life. For some, this simply means receiving help with tasks that have become more challenging to manage over time. Even when families have the best intentions, they may not have the time to provide the care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. If your loved one needs help for a few hours a day or a few days a week, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a trusted provider of respite care Reston seniors can depend on.
Regulates Blood Pressure
The meditative aspect of tai chi is very calming. When combined with muscle-toning exercise, deep breathing, and better oxygen delivery, this activity can naturally moderate blood pressure.
Elevates Moods & Boosts Energy
One of the greatest benefits seniors get from practicing tai chi is a mood-boosting release of endorphins. Not only do these powerful chemicals alleviate negative emotions like anxiety and depression while promoting a sense of elation, but they can also help in alleviating minor forms of physical pain. For this and other reasons, tai chi is great for seniors with arthritis, Parkinson’s, or Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, unlike strenuous cardiovascular exercise that can deplete energy stores, tai chi actually increases overall energy and vitality.
If your loved one needs help and supervision to perform tai chi but you’re not available to assist him or her, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Home Care Reston 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. Assisting Hands Home Care can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging. Call us today at (703) 783-5758 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.
