This article was contributed by Diana of Basement Guides
To maintain your health and wellbeing, it’s important to have an active lifestyle. Although staying active should be something every individual from all age groups should do, it’s especially crucial in later years.
An active lifestyle often includes regular exercise and movement. For elderly people, staying active for long periods might be challenging, and rigorous activity may result in injury. However, although it may be a bit difficult, having an active lifestyle has many benefits that far outweigh the risks. The good news is that an active lifestyle for elderly people doesn’t require rigorous physical activity.
Moderate exercise and staying active throughout the day are enough to maintain neurocognitive function, blood pressure, and overall health. There are also different kinds of activities that are safe for all age groups, so the chances of injury are low. In this article, we’ll list five things elderly people can do to stay active and independent later.
1. Make Time for Exercise
One of the most essential things elderly people can do to stay active is to make time for exercise. It doesn’t have to be a long or strenuous workout—a moderate, 30-minute exercise routine three times a week is sufficient. Walking or swimming are all excellent exercises for the elderly.
When it comes to exercise, consistency is critical. It’s more important to stick to a light but consistent routine than a rigorous one that may push yourself too hard and result in injuries. If you have difficulties committing to half an hour of exercise, you can try breaking it down into smaller time frames instead. Taking a 10-minute walk after every meal is a great way to increase your step count and get some exercise without tiring yourself out.
2. Join a Community Group or Class
Community groups and classes are a great way to socialize and stay active. There are a variety of groups and classes, so you’ll be able to find one that suits your needs and interests. If you don’t know where to start, try looking for a community at your local community centre. Community centres offer various activities, from art classes to book clubs to computer classes. Joining one of these groups will help keep you active and give you a chance to interact with other people.
Being involved in a community can also help elderly adults stay active in other ways. For example, if you’re a part of a community garden, you’ll likely need to do some light gardening to help maintain the space.
3. Indulge in Hobbies
Taking up a new hobby is another excellent way to stay active in later years. There are many different hobbies you can take up, from gardening to birdwatching to knitting. Not only will a new hobby help keep you active, but it will also give you a chance to learn something new.
A hobby is an excellent way to socialize and meet new people. It’s also a great way to develop and perfect your skills. If you’re a part of a hobby group, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with other people who share your interests. You can also join online forums or groups to connect with people from all over the world who share your hobby.
4. Get in the Water
Swimming is a great way to stay active for those with mobility issues, especially if you have joint pain. If you prefer something dynamic, water aerobics classes are also available at many gyms and community centres.
However, if you prefer something relaxing, hydrotherapy is an excellent option. This type of therapy uses water to help relieve pain and improve mobility. You can do hydrotherapy anywhere there’s water, such as in a pool, walk-in tub, or even the shower.
5. Do a Few Chores
Doing chores may not sound like a fun way to stay active, but it’s an excellent way to get some exercise. Some simple vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping are great ways to increase your heart rate. You can also take the opportunity to do light gardening, such as watering plants or pulling weeds.
Be careful not to overdo it, though. If you start to feel tired, stop what you’re doing and take a break until you feel better. Using proper form when doing chores is also vital to avoid injury.
Final Words
An active lifestyle for the elderly doesn’t need to be strenuous and rigorous. There are so many simple activities elderly people can do consistently to live an active lifestyle, such as: indulging in a new hobby, doing a few chores, or even joining a community. If you are considering exercising, don’t forget to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program to ensure that you won’t injure yourself.
Overall, staying active is highly beneficial for anyone of all age groups. There is also a wide variety of ways to stay active. When you find the proper routine that works for you, commit to it, and you can maintain your independence and live a long, healthy life.
Peace of Mind from LifeConnect24
Staying active and independent in later years is important, but age can present some limitations. You may also be anxious about something happening whilst you are exercising or enjoying a hobby. Personal alarms allow you to call for help at the press of a button. When your alarm is activated, an alert is sent to our 24/7 Response Team who will assess the situation and arrange help on your behalf.
To find out more about the LifeConnect24 personal alarm service, read our helpful guide or get in touch by calling 0800 999 0400 to speak with our friendly team.
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