Having a daily routine that includes exercise is important for our physical and mental health in many ways. Staying active gives our bodies energy, improves memory, and can even help when it comes to emotional distress. As we age, our metabolism slows down which makes it difficult to maintain a healthy weight. By being active, weight management becomes easier and leads to a handful of additional health benefits, such as immune and digestive system improvement. The health benefits do not stop there. When we exercise, blood pressure and bone density issues become less common. By living an active lifestyle, the risk of experiencing Alzheimer’s disease, obesity, heart disease, and diabetes also become less likely.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 28{cf751326d4685bb99dd23a400c777e92eaae7f77476092ec36af525797803eed} of individuals in the United States that are over the age of 50 are no longer physically active. When it comes to individuals over the age of 65, falls are the number one cause of injuries, both fatal and non-fatal. By exercising, you improve your strength and balance. When our bodies are strengthened and we have a better sense of balance, we reduce the chance of a fall occurring. Additionally, strength training can be beneficial when it comes to conditions such as arthritis, as it makes the symptoms less severe. Exercising also helps to improve our mental health. When we are active, our bodies release endorphins which help decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress. Instead, individuals often feel more self-confident. When we are regularly active, the quality of our sleep improves as well. Falling asleep becomes easier, which leads to waking up feeling more well-rested.
While we know the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle, as we age, it becomes increasingly difficult to incorporate exercise into our lives. However, staying active doesn’t have to be a difficult task. In fact, it can even be fun! More movement, even in small ways, can make a big difference in your life. The following exercises are a great way to start incorporating more exercise into your daily routine!
Tippy toe lifts help make your legs stronger. Simply hold onto a chair or table for support and go back and forth from standing flat on the floor to standing on your tippy toes. Head turns are another easy way to stay active. You can do head turns sitting or standing. Relax your shoulders and slowly turn your head from one direction to the other. When your head reaches one side, hold your head there for a moment, and then switch sides. Taking walks is another great way to relieve stress and live a more active lifestyle. Physical activity keeps us happy, healthy, and improves our overall wellbeing. It is never too late to make positive life changes, especially when you have 702 Caregivers by your side.Contact us today for more information about our services!