When it comes to a healthy, active lifestyle, we have all heard about the
benefits of exercise. However, is it safe for seniors older than 65 years
of age to exercise? The answer is yes!
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, nearly all elderly
individuals can benefit from some form of physical activity. Routine exercise
prevents chronic illness, lowers the possibility of injury, and improves mood.
While the body takes longer to repair itself, moderate exercise is good
for all ages and ability levels. There are many conditions which can be
improved with the help of exercise, such as Alzheimer’s disease,
dementia, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Regular exercise for seniors improves the following:
-
Chronic conditions and cancer. Physical activity lowers the risk of serious health conditions, such as
those mentioned above. In addition, it also helps manage arthritis pain
and high cholesterol.
-
Immune system functioning. A body that is both strong and healthy can prevent illness and infection
more effectively and faster. Instead of sapping energy reserves completely,
recovery from sickness can take less of a toll on the body due to regular exercise.
-
Bone density. Since exercise protects your bones from losing mass, improved bone density
reduces the risk of osteoporosis and prevent broken bones due to falls
or accidents.
-
Gastrointestinal functioning. Consistent exercise helps increase your metabolism and encourages the effective
elimination of waste, promoting digestive health benefits.
-
Heart functioning. Routine exercise lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and high blood
pressure, especially if an elderly person has hypertension.
A routine exercise schedule is also correlated with decreased mortality
and morbidity in elderly adults. In addition, exercise and training results
in improvements in reach and balance.
For more information about our philosophy of care at our Hampton assisted
living facility,
contact us at (770) 824-3385.