Active seniors can enjoy increased mood, better balance, higher levels of energy, and fewer health issues, among other things. Starting an exercise plan for an aging adult requires a significant amount of preparation. It’s important to choose exercises and activities that are right for the individual and to be cognizant of his or her current state of health. The following are three steps that can build a great foundation for regular daily activity.
Step 1: Schedule a Physical Exam
Before making any dramatic changes in their physical activity levels, seniors should receive comprehensive physical examinations. This allows medical professionals to identify any health issues that might have an impact on seniors’ ability to workout. Moreover, a senior’s regular physician can also recommend a number of fitness options that are best suited to his or her own needs.
Most seniors are able to enjoy the benefits of exercise, especially with the help of trained professional caregivers. 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.
Step 2: Check for Good Nutrition
It’s additionally important that seniors have healthy diets in place before starting new exercise programs. Although metabolism typically starts to slow down during the senior years, aging adults still need to get sufficient calories and nutrients to support their energy requirements. Placing additional demands on the body before nutritional deficiencies have been identified and resolved will cause more harm than good. Many gyms have personal trainers on-site who can make recommendations for feasible exercise routines and healthy eating plans for seniors. This is also a topic that can be discussed with a senior’s regular doctor.
Step 3: Start Gradually
Seniors who have maintained sedentary lifestyles for considerable periods of time should gradually increase their activity levels instead of jumping into radically different lifestyles right away. Small changes, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking further away from store entrances, and taking brief walks after meals, can make a significant difference in how aging adults function and feel. Low-impact activities, such as walking, cycling, and water aerobics, can also boost metabolism, moderate blood pressure, and increase circulation without putting a significant amount of pressure on the joints and bones.
If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Harrisburg Home Care can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks. Trust Home Care to provide high-quality compassionate professional care for your loved one. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (717) 540-4663.