Remain Active while Aging

It is increasingly important to remain active while we age. Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for balance, strength, and cardiovascular health, as well as to reduce the threat of chronic disease. It can seem daunting to some people to start exercising, especially if it’s not part of your routine already, but movement is essential for your health, mind and body alike. Be sure to start a new exercise routine slowly, gradually increasing frequency and intensity levels as you go. Try to pick a routine you can stick with, even if it’s not the most intense. Consistency is key, and it is more important to keep going than to do more. 

Movement is one of the key pillars we base our holistic approach on. There are several factors of aging well, and movement is a big one. Additionally, there are ways to make movement a new hobby, or include it in a new way, which keeps the mind stimulated and makes joy part of your daily routine. This incorporates some of our other key pillars as well, which are the basis of every custom care plan. Below we list some of our favorite ways to get moving at any level, but working with Home Care Assistance Dayton means a customized care plan. Get moving in a way that’s made for you today. 

No matter the exercise, it is important to take it slow when you’re first starting out, and work your way up to prevent any injuries. Additionally, each time you work out you should start with a warm up and end by cooling down. Stretching is a great way to start and end each exercise, but going slowly for the first few minutes can be a good way to warm up as well. Be aware of your body and your limits. 

Walking is Good for Any Age

Walking is good for people of any age and it’s freely available without membership fees! Just walk around the block or find some nearby nature trails, if that’s more desirable. You can even bring family or friends along for some company. Try adding a daily walk after dinner to aid digestion and get moving at the same time. 

Improve TV Time

You can improve your health while watching TV with a stationary bicycle or treadmill in the room! Walking pads are smaller treadmills that you can tuck away when you’re not using it, and make an affordable alternative to a treadmill. Walk (or cycle) while you watch, and take breaks during commercials! You can also incorporate some light hand weights for an arm work out if you’re extra ambitious, or consider using them in turns. 

Enjoy Gardening

Gardening is a popular way to get out of the house and get some exercise too. Gardening can make people feel great, especially with the scent of herbs, produce and flowers! The aroma can be invigorating and promote feelings of well-being. Getting outside is good for the mind and the body. If bending over is too much, try raised boxes.

Golfing Fun

If you golf, skip the cart and walk from hole to hole. Whether you’re a good golfer or not, it can be a fun social time, too. 

Find a Pool

Use your community pool to strengthen the cardiovascular, respiratory, and musculoskeletal systems.  Swimming may reduce arthritic or joint pain, also. Communities often have swim times designated for older adults and water aerobics classes, too. Swimming is an excellent source of exercise for older adults, as it reduces strain on your joints so you can focus on using muscles or improving your cardio.  

Exercise at home

If you’re more of a homebody, or if you have concerns about costs associated with gyms or pools, check out our article Simple Exercises Aging Adults Can Do at Home for more ideas. 

Try Classes

Get your daily exercise in and learn something new at the same time! There are plenty of physical education classes available for any skill level. Try tai chi or yoga classes to improve flexibility and balance, or water aerobics for strength and cardio. Consider learning a new sport, like pickleball, that you can take back to your friends and family. Classes come with the added benefit of a social aspect. Meet new people with similar interests, or take friends with you to enjoy learning together. 

Our evidence-based, holistic approach to healthcare is what makes Home Care Assistance stand out. We base all of our care plans on our five-pillars of aging well. Each of our caregivers is expertly trained to provide the best care for you or your loved ones. Each and every care plan is customized to the individual. Our exceptional caregivers can create a personalized routine to incorporate movement in your everyday life, however works best for you. Call Home Care Assistance Dayton today to get started, or visit our blog for more tips for healthy aging.