Spring seems to have officially arrived. The warmer days and nights means it is easier to get out side and exercise!
In addition to indoor walking and senior movement programs, exercise can also be safely taken outside. Research unequivocally confirms that regular exercise is more important than ever to fortify the body and mind as you age. Recent studies on animals and people performed at The Saulk Institute for Biological Studies and University of Illinois (and many others) show an association between physical activity and improved cognitive performance across the lifespan. It’s also important to exercise and keep exercising to retain the benefits.
1. How Our Brains Benefit from Regular Exercise
Enhances regular brain function
An active brain can slow and even prevent memory loss and cognitive dementia
Slow the progression of brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease
2. Exercise Enhances Senior Weight Maintenance and/or Loss
As metabolism naturally slows maintaining a healthy weight is a challenge
Exercise helps increase metabolism and build muscle mass
More calories are burned
Overall wellness improves when the body reaches a healthy weight
3. Exercise Reduces the Impact of Illness and Chronic Disease
Improved immune function
Better heart health and blood pressure control
Increased bone density
Optimal digestive functioning
Lowers risk of chronic conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, osteoporosis, and colon cancer
4. Exercise Enhances Mobility, Flexibility, and Balance
Improved strength, flexibility and posture
Better balance and coordination
Reduces risk of falls
Strength training also helps alleviate the symptoms of chronic conditions such as arthritis
5. Mental Health Benefits
Improved sleep –so important for overall health
Poor sleep is not an automatic consequence of aging
Sleep more quickly and more deeply
Exercise boosts mood and self-confidence
Endorphins produced by exercise actually reduce feelings of sadness or depression
Being active and feeling strong naturally increases self-confidence
Exercise is good at any age! And it is never too late to get started to reap all the benefits. Even just a short walk every day can make a big difference. Encourage your senior to get started today.
Source: http://eldercompass.net/
Regular exercise provides many health benefits for seniors including a stronger heart, a positive mental outlook, improved balance, and an increased chance of remaining independent. Some Benefits of Walking: Reduced risk of dying prematurely Decreased risk of dying from heart disease Decreased risk of developing colon cancer Reduced risk of developing high blood pressure Helps in […]
MORE INFO
Spring seems to have officially arrived. The warmer days and nights means it is easier to get out side and exercise! In addition to indoor walking and senior movement programs, exercise can also be safely taken outside. Research unequivocally confirms that regular exercise is more important than ever to fortify the body and mind as […]
MORE INFO
With rising costs and less money in many budgets, seniors may consider purchasing home gyms to cut the expense of purchasing a membership to a gym or fitness center. Some find that the investment is well worth while as they enjoy health benefits of a more active lifestyle in a convenient home location. Who Can […]
MORE INFO
I am saddened to learn of the death of one of America’s most beloved actresses—Ann B. Davis who played Alice on “The Brady Bunch”. Her death, which was unavoidable from a fall is one of the leading causes of death to seniors over 65 years of age. According to Wikipedia – “Davis died on June 1, […]
MORE INFO
As a physical therapist, I have focused my professional attention on preventing older adults from falling through education, resources and exercises. As a son, grandson and son-in-law, I have added to my focus, preventing senior scams. I am personally involved in helping seniors, especially those who are new to the internet and trusting in the […]
MORE INFO
Preventing an older adult from falling is one of the greatest gifts we can offer our mom, dad, grandparent or friend. Nobody wants to fall. However, there are preventable steps which family, friends and caregivers can put in place to prevent falls. Once you know the fall risk factors, then the rest is easy–implementation. Personal […]
MORE INFO
Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar Product Feature Ideal for pull-ups, push-ups, chin-ups, dips, crunches, and more Three grip positions, narrow, wide, and neutral Uses leverage to hold against the doorway so there are no screws and no damage to door. Installs in seconds. Product Description Strengthen your back, biceps, and other upper body […]
MORE INFOPowered by WishList Member - Membership Software
68 Comments to "Senior Citizen’s & Benefits of Exercise"
junenrufus says:
June 25, 2014 at 10:51 pm -
Every now and again, I take a break from exercising, usually because I’m not feeling well or something has happened to throw me off. Whenever I stop exercising, it doesn’t take long before I start feeling the ill effects!
My favorite exercise is walking. I go walking for at least half an hour every day the weather and my health permit. I put on plenty of sunscreen and wear my big hat so that I’m protected from the sun. Every day I can get in a little walk, I sleep so much better at night. Plus it gives me a little mental lift to get out of the house for a bit and get some sunshine.
This reminds me of something I read on Facebook recently: “Food is the most abused anxiety drug. Exercise is the most underutilized antidepressant.” This is true, so get out there and exercise, folks!
theshaynee says:
June 26, 2014 at 10:42 pm -
It’s crazy how quickly you start to notice that you aren’t working out anymore. I’ll get out of breath or pick up on my lack of energy even after a few days without exercise.
Another cool thing about exercise being an antidepressant is that depression and anxiety go hand in hand. So by treating depression you are also taking care of the anxiety as well.
Andrew says:
August 7, 2015 at 2:13 am -
Exercise has phenomenal benefits. The ample ways that it positively affects the body are why I started making it a regular habit in high school, which will continue for the rest of my life, as long as I am capable of doing so. I am convinced that exercise is one of many factors, including things such as a healthy diet, that will allow me to live a significantly longer, healthier, and happier life.
In our modern world, it seems like there are too many people who don’t exercise often. This is undoubtedly a primary reason for rising obesity levels, and declining health on average. The sooner people take their health into their own hands through simple steps such as exercise, the sooner our entire population will have more prosperous lives, and have many more years to spend with their families and loved ones.
jmdecaro says:
June 26, 2014 at 4:11 pm -
After resisting working out for so long I finally gave in and started doing a few small things at home in the last few weeks. I never believed people when they said that the mental benefits of working out were a real thing, but lo and behold it is true! I actually feel better afterwards, my mind is clear of all the extra stuff that’s bouncing around in there constantly and I feel refreshed. I don’t know if it’s just the simple act of taking my mind of the days stresses or if it’s my body releasing helpful chemicals, but I must admit that all of those people I brushed off in the past really were on to something. Imagine that!
GenevB says:
August 10, 2015 at 7:37 pm -
Working out is the most underestimated treat for stress, I’ve also have doubts about it until I experienced it, only that I did that when I stopped working out. After I did stop, my mind started to become unclear, I couldn’t focus that good, even my sleep wasn’t the same, I needed more.
Tipes99 says:
August 16, 2015 at 7:04 pm -
Yeah, its hard to believe at first and with all the technology out there today exercising is rather hard. My biggest challenge was to actually get up and get out of my chair to just exercise for 15 minute. Now, thought I love it because it help clear my head. I notice that I have a much clearer mind and can focus more on anything I do.
theshaynee says:
June 26, 2014 at 10:44 pm -
It’s safe to say that working out benefits everyone. Every age, every situation. There have been stories about people who are bedridden and they can’t walk due to being overweight or inactive. But by moving their upper bodies, their arms and torsos they are able to work up to moving their legs. And then, eventually, they can walk and be more active, leaving the bed.
brabbit says:
June 27, 2014 at 4:11 am -
I’m not entirely sure I understand what you’re saying here. How would moving one’s upper body carry over to moving one’s legs? If a muscle isn’t being used, how would flexing another muscle help it grow stronger? Were you implying that the act of exercising itself allowed them to develop more willpower?
Selvie says:
August 4, 2015 at 11:04 pm -
I have heard of this happening as well. I think its because of the positive emotions that come with exercising the upper body. The positive feelings causes them to expect good things to happen and they start to exercise their legs with positive expectation that they will be able to walk or move. The power of the mind to impact the body is astonishing and very real. It has happened many times that the impossible became possible.
Navarro0321 says:
June 30, 2014 at 2:18 am -
This post really bullet points the overall benefits of exercise, not just the conspicuous, physical aspect. Exercise improves quality of life pervasively in an individual. When you look good, you feel good, and when you are feeling primed, you perform at optimum degrees in every corner of your life. To piggyback off what each one has stated, exercise is a primitive antidepressant and confidence booster. Hence, improving mental agility and sharpness, whereas, the endorphin’s are stimulated, forging a robust lifestyle internally and outwardly. For all the benefits that exercising offers, perhaps, the new fountain of youth does exist.
GenevB says:
August 10, 2015 at 7:39 pm -
I couldn’t agree more with you. It’s like that proverb that says that in order to keep a healthy mind, you need to keep a healthy body and if you don’t have a body that can perform good physical performances, then parts of your brain that are supposed to interact with those muscles, for example if you can’t do a proper push-up, the part of your brain that is supposed to use those muscles in that specific form, stays inactive.
Rhonni says:
July 1, 2014 at 3:10 pm -
Yes, exercise IS like a fountain of youth! My mother’s physical therapist encourages her to walk consistently – even if it is just inside the house. She gets frustrated with him about how much she feels he makes her do but I try to tell her that keeping active is what will help her feel better on an ongoing basis. As soon as she has a couple of days where she is mostly sedentary, you can notice the difference in her mood, her ability to do things, how she feels ‘blah’, etc. As the saying goes ‘use it or lose it’!
thatgeminigal says:
July 10, 2014 at 8:14 pm -
My mother is a prime example of the great benefits of exercising. She has taken morning walks for decades and she is an avid gardener. She is now 78 years old and she continues her daily routine of walking and tending her garden. It is no doubt in great part to her fitness routine that she has been able to keep her blood pressure under control. Plus, she looks great.
GenevB says:
August 10, 2015 at 7:49 pm -
Thanks for sharing, my father’s story can relate. He is over 60 and is still pretty active, sometimes I can’t even keep up the step with him while running.
getup says:
September 30, 2015 at 11:50 pm -
My mother also enjoys walking. She is now 82 and walks around the block everyday, sometimes twice a day in warm weather. Sometimes she brings the dog with her. She rode a bicycle up until she was 75. She would ride to her friend’s house and visit for awhile. I think these exercise activities provide benefits to both mental and physical health. I am wondering what I can get my mother to do inside in the Winter months. Perhaps I will take her to the gym.
preyy says:
July 11, 2014 at 4:49 pm -
I don’t think that exercising is highly dependant on the age whatsoever. It can benefit everyone, the younger generation or the older one, but, indeed, when you’re older you kind of lack the metabolism that you used to have when you were younger. I can feel this on myself sometimes, I’ve got some kilograms that I can’t get rid of, and it usually gets tedious when I want to even lose one! Oh, it used to be better back then, but I can’t complain either, I feel like I have more privileges from my nephews whilst being older! 🙂
GoodReplays says:
July 11, 2014 at 5:29 pm -
I really like this article because it portrays how holistic exercise really is! Most people think it is for only weight loss and physical appearance but it is much more than that as emphasized and pointed in this article. I want to thank you for this because every time I read an article like this I get motivated to continue my exercise routine!
Jesterkins says:
July 11, 2014 at 9:06 pm -
Even though I’m not a senior citizen in the slightest, I’ve been trying to find ways to help out my father. My father is over 80 years old and all his life, he has been active in some form or another. However, the past few years have been pretty rough on us all. He was diagnosed with a blood clot in his neck and was placed on blood thinners. You mentioned how exercising helps better heart health and blood pressure control. Since natural remedies are all the crave now, I have been hoping for some advice to help my father. He can’t seem to move around as much as before and he tend to sleep a lot during the day. Does anyone have any thoughts on things he can do to help him gain more energy and improve his heart health?
GenevB says:
August 10, 2015 at 7:46 pm -
At that point, you could try and search for a doctor who would prescribe steroids for your dad. I know how it sounds, but trust me, the natural secretion at that age is pretty much shut down and his body needs a natural boost, steroids like testosterone can help boost his overall health as well as his physique, you can make the last years he has on earth a lot more enjoyable, you can make him feel young again. If you decide to take count of my advice, consult with a doctor first and don’t do anything unless supervised by a doctor.
secret.goldfish says:
July 11, 2014 at 10:46 pm -
I knew exercising was good for everyone, I just never really knew the exect extent of it. Thanks to this great article, very in dept. You make great points.
calicer1996 says:
July 14, 2014 at 7:20 am -
Thank you for this nice post. Its about time we stop slouching on the couch and exercise instead. Really helpful post for beginners. I will share this one with my parents.
Singer says:
July 14, 2014 at 5:00 pm -
The beauty of exercise is multi-faceted. In the last 6 months since I have exercised consistently (30 minutes a day), my blood pressure has dramatically improved plus my sense of well-being is so much better. The knowledge of accomplishment on a daily basis is something I have loved from the first day until now. I have found the routine is a source of comfort in that I know I’ve done something good for myself that day. I plan to keep it up over the course of this next year to see how the improvement continues!
askanison says:
July 18, 2014 at 5:36 pm -
My parents are both in their seventies and don’t want to do anything but sit at home and watch tv. I am trying to find some easy excersises we can do together. Both my parents have trouble with their knees so it is hard to find something suitable. Any suggestions?
oraclemay says:
July 19, 2014 at 2:06 am -
You are never too old to start exercising; in fact, exercise only gets more important with advancing age. Research shows no matter what your age, you stand to gain significant improvements in strength, range of motion, balance, bone density and mental clarity by exercising regularly.
oraclemay says:
July 19, 2014 at 2:07 am -
Exercise reduces your risk of about two dozen health conditions, ranging from cancer and heart disease to type 2 diabetes, stroke, dementia and depression.
oraclemay says:
July 19, 2014 at 2:09 am -
Exercise is a key to remaining steady on your feet as you get older, can keep your sense of balance strong, and even restore what’s already been lost. There is no need to be old and unable to move around. Exercise can keep your muscles and joints supple.
oraclemay says:
July 19, 2014 at 2:10 am -
Longevity is the new normal; increasing numbers of people in their 80s and 90s are accomplishing stunning physical accomplishments. Much of this is due to a healthier lifestyle and the benefits of exercise.
oraclemay says:
July 19, 2014 at 2:10 am -
Longevity is the new normal; increasing numbers of people in their 80s and 90s are accomplishing stunning physical accomplishments. Much of this is due to a healthier lifestyle and the benefits of exercise.
oraclemay says:
July 19, 2014 at 2:13 am -
Not everyone has to become a world-class athlete to stay in shape, of course. Many communities have senior baseball leagues, swim teams, and other group sports that you can take part in, or you can simply exercise regularly with a personal trainer or on your own. The key to keep in mind is that the more active you are, the healthier, more nimble and happier you’ll be.
Tipes99 says:
August 20, 2015 at 4:53 pm -
That’s right especially if you have a personal medical problem. I know because as a child I have always have asthma. Which prevents me from running or playing with my friends. Nevertheless, my grandma would encourage me to exercise with her. Which I am grateful for up till today. Now, whenever I have time I’ll spend it with my grandma. Encouraging her like she did for me. Its really hard at first, but it will eventually get better and easier. So, if you are feeling down or not up for it no matter what age you are please don’t and I give you my support. To exercise for the benefit of your health and the happiness that will definitely your life.
askanison says:
July 19, 2014 at 5:42 pm -
I would like to just find some routine short exercises for my parents. I am printing out this page for them, but i need to find something to build strength and balance. Neither of my parents can get around as well as they used to.
oraclemay says:
July 21, 2014 at 1:08 am -
You need to be aware of the signs of Elder abuse:
Look for any bruises on the bottom of the feet, genitals, ears or neck. Such bruises are not normal. Sores that are caused by pressure and remain unattended. Check for matted hair or fecal matter. Take note of any fear. Unusual depression, changes in alertness and withdrawing from normal activities are red flags. Unexplained, burns, abrasions or broken bones. Financial changes, dehydration or weight loss.
oraclemay says:
July 21, 2014 at 1:12 am -
Adult Protective Services must be contacted if you suspect any form of abuse. They partner with professionals and will go and inspect the home to develop a plan. They are able to arrange medical care, emergency shelter, supportive services and legal care. Every country has APS.
oraclemay says:
July 21, 2014 at 1:22 am -
NURSING HOMES
Before placing your elderly in a Nursing Home you should carefully check the reviews. Search for any negative reports or deficiencies against the institution. Compare the Nursing Homes and the type of care they offer. Visit the facilities and chat with the staff and residents. Be sure to ask a lot of questions.
oraclemay says:
July 21, 2014 at 1:28 am -
Protect yours and the finances of your loved ones’ with the use of legal mechanisms, such as power of attorney directives. This will stop any family members who may attempt to scam them. Whether you have much or little, this step remains important. You should also plan for either mental health or substance abuse problems.
quirkyfrog says:
July 22, 2014 at 3:08 pm -
A lot of people know the benefits of exercise, but find it hard to start. Chronic conditions, such as COPD may it harder for the person to be active, less they are more sedentary, thus the COPD gets worse. Chronic disease can be an evil cycle to deterioration. What words would you say to an elderly person who has been sedentary their entire lives, but wants to make a change now so that they can enjoy their grandchildren?
captainawesome says:
July 24, 2014 at 8:29 pm -
The benefits of exercise also go way beyond the time you spend doing it. This is a great way to lose weight and control your metabolism, due to the fact that your muscles are like a calorie furnace, even when you’re not in the gym. Just a few minutes a day will have a lasting effect hours later.
SaraQ says:
July 29, 2014 at 12:23 am -
Age is just a number and i have seen senior citizen’s in better shape and having more stamina than teenagers. Its all about you acknowledging that with age your body is changing and by appropriate exercise as well as diet you can enjoy a more fulfilling, prosperous, active and healthy life.
oraclemay says:
August 4, 2014 at 7:04 am -
As a young person you tend to seek life experiences that are extraordinary and far removed from our normal routines, because we have a long future ahead of us, however it is a fact that when we become older and become more aware that we have limited time, the simple experiences of ordinary daily life become more valuable to us.
oraclemay says:
August 4, 2014 at 7:09 am -
It is the extraordinary experiences that we have when we are young that help us to establish our identity and so become valued. The more a person begins to settle down, the more ordinary experiences become a central part of our lives and increase in value.
oraclemay says:
August 4, 2014 at 7:14 am -
It seems that when you grow older and know your time is limited you begin to value that which you have greatly. Research shows that one felt constant happiness from those extraordinary experiences, but pleasure increases from day to day experiences as people age.
oraclemay says:
August 4, 2014 at 7:18 am -
When an individual becomes aware that time is limited it alters their emotional perspective. They then begin to invest their time and energy in things that have the most meaning to them. This is especially true of the elderly. Research also revealed that it was experiences that were shared that made people the happiest and gave them the most pleasure, not material possessions.
oraclemay says:
August 4, 2014 at 7:26 am -
Over time our perspectives and perception of happiness changes. Feeling terribly excited is a far greater reward to younger people, while peace and calm give elderly people far greater satisfaction. It is important to be aware that what makes us happy does not necessarily make our elderly happy. So, think carefully before you decide to take them away from their normal routines for an extraordinary experience. Don’t assume that it will give them the same pleasure as it gives you. To them it may be far more pleasurable to do whatever it is they do every day and just to have their family at their side.
Kas says:
July 14, 2015 at 1:13 am -
All I can say is that exercise, for me, is a no-brainer. Do it and feel better; don’t do it and feel lousy. I can really feel the effects mentally. Exercise truly does boost the mood. I enjoy getting out in the fresh air and sunshine and connecting with nature. I have the good fortune of living near gorgeous parks and secluded wooded areas that can give even the the best athlete a strenuous workout. I’ll admit that there are those daya when lazy will kick in, but I can honestly say that there has never been a time when I have gone out and did not come back feeling rejuvenated.
Diane says:
July 15, 2015 at 6:15 am -
I definitely feel better when I’m more active. Both of my parents have eaten healthy and exercised for years, including walking. My Dad passed years ago, but my Mom still eats a healthy diet, and does housework and yard work, as well as light free weights. I would like to see her take it easy on the yard work, but she won’t hear of hiring someone to do it, and seems to enjoy it. I would like to see her get a Mobile Lifeline or other monitoring device, in case of a fall, but she can be pretty stubborn. Thankfully, she’s not alone that much, so if something happened, a family member would notice pretty quickly.
Angel says:
July 26, 2015 at 2:44 pm -
A regular exercise routine is important to any age group,more so for those in their senior years for obvious reasons, I think equally important as said routine is the enjoyment people get from exercise. They should not feel like they SHOULD do it but that they LOVE doing it. In that way,the benefits of exercise are maximized.
For 3 years now, I have been enjoying my favorite exercise–Zumba. I love dancing so doing Zumba has always been fun for me. All that dancing and music make time flies so fast while I burn calories ranging from 500 to 1,000 per hour. The results? My medical tests have consistently been good and people say I look much younger than my age.
Choose the exercise that you will truly enjoy,consult your doctor about it and then go for it!
GemmaRowlands says:
July 28, 2015 at 1:44 pm -
One of the things that I find the most astonishing is just how much of an impact exercise can have on your mind. It is especially important if you’re likely to spend a lot of your day on your own, because it can just lift you out of that depression. I certainly know that this has been the case for me, and I tend to feel a heck of a lot better for it. I will always try to exercise whenever I can, as I believe that the impact it can have on your mind is absolutely amazing.
JoggingDaily says:
August 9, 2015 at 8:37 pm -
I agree, Gemma. For anyone who is struggling with stress or anxiety or depression, exercise is always my first recommendation! It clears your mind but gets you focused at the same time. It helps you release all of the pent-up tension that has been building up inside of you all day. It’s like I have always said, a good diet will give you a healthy weight, and a good exercise regimen will give you a healthy mind!
Selvie says:
July 30, 2015 at 9:31 am -
My gran was 94 when she passed on. Until that very final 6 months she led a very active lifestyle. She did all her own housework and cooking. Also because she lived in a flat, she used to walk everyday to a community garden where she helped with planting vegetables. The walk there and back was a total of 30 minutes. So I can attest to the amazing benefits of an active lifestyle and walking everyday. I just wish I could be more like her and my mom. My lifestyle has become too sedentary and I just can’t seem to get moving. Partly because my work is on my laptop and I am glued to it night and day.
JoggingDaily says:
August 13, 2015 at 11:32 pm -
I am getting close to that age and I also can say that the benefits of exercising are immense !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! People in scientific movies will talk about humans attaining immortality, but I think a healthy exercise regime is as close as we are ever going to get to extending human life 😉
Lilly Smith says:
July 30, 2015 at 9:36 pm -
Everyone here certainly has a good outlook on exercising! I myself can’t wait to get back to it. I have gained a TON of weight in the past 2 years since I have not been able to get out and walk. I am awaiting 2 knee replacements and it makes it very difficult for me at this time. I am hoping by this time next year to be back at it. I feel so much better when I walk and of course the weight stays off too. I know it sounds like an excuse, but thank goodness I quit smoking 2 years ago, but at the same time my knees went south quickly so I had to stop walking……THE POUNDS found me quickly! There are other exercises I know I should be doing to help with this, but it’s like a bad circle of events that keeps me at a stand still! Wish me luck here soon! First knee replacement will be in October and the 2nd hopefully in January!!
Mama Bulldog says:
August 13, 2015 at 11:17 pm -
Much research has been done in regards to keeping the brain active, thereby preventing Alzheimer’s. I agree with this train of thought. I also think that the reason I don’t get sick much compared to my husband and children is because I exercise more than they do. However, I’m the only one suffering from obesity! I suppose as long as my vitals are fine then I’ll just have to live with being overweight. Good thing I’m 50 and in a marriage that I know with last, because this is the body I’m seem to be stuck with. I’ll just laugh and keep moving!
Esmael says:
August 27, 2015 at 11:11 am -
Yes! Exceed use is one of the best things for you health and mind. You can stay nice and healthy with exercising. Your body is going to thank you for it! More benefits to it include an increased oxygen capacity, more efficient oxygen usage by the muscles, and naturally more strength and endurance. Its a win win win!
Diane says:
September 10, 2015 at 7:08 pm -
One thing that many people do when they experience pain is to stop moving. In time, this can lead to a habit of inactivity. As we get older, we tend to experience some pain from Arthritis and other conditions. These types of chronic pain differ from the acute pain that signals we should stop moving/exercising. Often, getting up and moving is something that can help us cope with chronic pain, by elevating our mood, therefore making us feel better. When we feel better, we have more of a desire to socialize and exercise, and as a result, we can become healthier, and have an increased ability to cope with our pain.
Diane says:
September 18, 2015 at 9:45 pm -
The weather here has cooled off somewhat, and I’ve been able to get out more, for my walks on the local nature trails. It’s such a great feeling being outside in the fresh air, and I can already feel a difference in my strength and endurance. I’m looking forward to the Fall season, and am planning to encourage my friends in the neighborhood to join me for an occasional walk, as well, since many of them rarely get any exercise.
misskrystal1982 says:
September 25, 2015 at 4:12 pm -
I have to say, any sort of exercise is good for you. Some people are just naturally more fit than others, and that is fine! But everyone should be doing something daily to get the heart rate up and keep themselves active. It doesn’t matter if it’s walking or tending a garden, or even just picking up around the house. It’s terribly hard on the body to sit for long periods of time. It can also affect your mental health as well!
mk417 says:
September 29, 2015 at 9:56 pm -
The benefit on exercise when it comes to senior citizens is astounding. My father is 67 and is diabetic. He began to walk more, as well as swim, and his health has gotten a lot better. His doctor has told him that his blood pressure is getting better, his cholesterol is lower, and he even reduced his diabetes medicine intake as a result. It’s crazy what a little exercise can do, even if you don’t work out particularly hard.
krissttinaisobe says:
September 29, 2015 at 11:39 pm -
Another good thing to remember is to practice deep breathing. My Mom who has been in and out of the hospital was told to exercise and practice deep breathing. She needed oxygen at one point. Her doctors recommended to practice deep breathing every hour. She quickly stopped the need of her oxygen tanks. She exercises too and is 89. We recently discovered coconut oil from her nurse at Kokua Nurse an out patient from Kaiser Hosp. Benefits of coconut oil is to stop dry skin, stops diabetes 2 & dementia and Alzheimer’s too!
Finally some good news for us to help us reverse the ravages of old age! If you’re taking medication it’s good to speak to your pharmacist and doctor first. See your doctor regularly too for they have tests to warn us if anything is happening with our health. Happy good health for all!
Celerian says:
October 4, 2015 at 8:25 pm -
Make sure that you join a senior citizen exercise group! It is fantastic for meeting new friends and keeping you motivated.
mmegs00 says:
October 19, 2015 at 12:52 am -
This is a great article. It really points out the importance of exercise, especially for seniors. I am young, but my grandfather is easily in better shape than most people I know. He moderates his diet well and exercises often, even if it is just getting up every once and a while to move around. He is in great shape, well into his 80s with no sign of any health issues. I think exercise is so important for a long and healthy life. As well, many people have pointed to the social component of exercising. It is such a great way to be out in your community and staying social. Far too often seniors can be lonely, but this is a great way to make sure they feel connected to others and their community.
krissttinaisobe says:
October 19, 2015 at 9:47 am -
So true exercise is wonderful to do to keep healthy! We just had a wellness program called Blue Zone Project from HMSA. East Hawaii, North Hawaii & Ko’olaupoko communities were chosen for the Blue Project areas. Here are two links to better understand HMSA’s Blue Zone Project:
* “HMSA and Healthways Launch Blue Zones Project® to Improve the Well-being of Hawaii Residents” . https://hmsa.com/media-center/2014/09/blue-zones-project/
* ‘BLUE ZONES PROJECT COMMUNITY KICK-OFFS OCT 16-17″ https://hawaii.bluezonesproject.com/
My doctor has ordered for me to exercise more too.
krissttinaisobe says:
November 6, 2015 at 2:13 am -
Just wanted to add that too much salt intake can be the onslaught to brain diseases like dementia and Alzheimer too. I was watching Dr. Oz yesterday when Rachel Ray was on with new healthy recipes and Dr. Oz mentioned that too much salt intake can bring on the onslaught of Alzheimer! I found an article about it that I wanted to share with you so we can exercise and watch what we eat to stay healthy too!
http://www.actiononsalt.org.uk/less/Health/
Heda says:
November 16, 2015 at 8:25 am -
I recenltly started working out and I couldn’t believe how much a single wokout can help to decrease stress an how much more relieved I am after it! I am trying to work out every day now and I even started toeat helthier fod andd my life has really changed since then!
Alex_F says:
December 12, 2015 at 4:07 pm -
Great post, and so true. I love the quote mentioned on the first post, that “exercise is the most underutilized antidpressant.” I recently graduated from college with a degree in Integrative Physiology… for credit, we had the option to do an internship at some local health care facility. I chose to work at one of the local retirement homes in the fitness area. On a plaque on the wall, a sign read “If you don’t have time for bodily exercise now, you better make time for illness later.” That, especially for seniors, is so true. It is an antidepressant, helps prevent/delay the onset of osteoporosis, among a million other health benefits. So, before we resort to drugs to help our seniors, let’s encourage and help them get the free medicine of regular exercise.
Alex_F says:
December 12, 2015 at 4:08 pm -
Great post, and so true. I recently graduated from college with a degree in Integrative Physiology… for credit, we had the option to do an internship at some local health care facility. I chose to work at one of the local retirement homes in the fitness area. On a plaque on the wall, a sign read “If you don’t have time for bodily exercise now, you better make time for illness later.” That, especially for seniors, is so true. It is an antidepressant, helps prevent/delay the onset of osteoporosis, among a million other health benefits. So, before we resort to drugs to help our seniors, let’s encourage and help them get the free medicine of regular exercise.
buggs81 says:
December 14, 2015 at 12:43 am -
This is an excellent article for seniors to read and really anyone wanting to stay in shape. I completely agree that to stay healthy longer you must exercise your mind and body. My husband’s grandfather is 88 years old and in excellent health and he is extremely active and is always doing something. I agree with the article that exercise is essential to helping get a good nights sleep. Many inactive seniors have difficulty sleeping, which contributes to their daily fatigue.
diligentworker says:
December 15, 2015 at 5:19 pm -
This was very helpful. I think the list of benefits mentioned is going to do the trick in getting my parents to exercise more. Everything that was touched on in this blog’s section is important information. Even I will start taking exercise more seriously.
krissttinaisobe says:
December 17, 2015 at 2:44 am -
Just came back from the doctors today and they told my Mom she has exercises for her to do too to get well and keep well. My doctor said I got to loose more weight too. So it means more exercising too! The tips sure make a lot of sense. Just that I get lazy I suppose or get too tired. Best not to make excuses and get exercising for better health!