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Exercising Tips for Seniors with Health Conditions in Miami-Dade
Posted by Scott Cantin in Senior Care, Senior Health | 0 comments
Physical activity is good for people of all ages, including seniors. You still need some form of exercise even if you have a health condition like chronic pain, high blood pressure, diabetes, or arthritis. Physical activities like walking, bike riding, weightlifting, swimming, and gardening are safe, especially if you start slowly.
At Advancare, we do recommend speaking to your doctor before engaging in any physical activities if you have a health problem such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease. Your doctor will tell you what exercises to avoid and which activities are good for you. Whether you have dementia or a short-term disability, our professional, compassionate, and caring caregivers can help you stay active with relevant exercises. We also offer home care services such as light housekeeping, meal planning preparation, and many others.
How much physical activity do seniors need?
A physical activity is better than none. That means you should stay active even when you have a health condition. According to CDC, 100 to 150 minutes of moderately intense activities like walking can go a long way toward helping seniors above 65 years. Depending on your health condition, you can assess what part of your body requires less movement and keep your activities moderate.
Staying physically active: Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias
Researchers have yet to conclude how exercises benefit people with mild cognitive impairment. They also want to know if physical activities improve brain function in older adults at risk of dementia. Seniors with mild cognitive impairments can successfully and safely complete vigorous exercise, provided no other underlying health concerns exist.
Being active helps people with Alzheimer’s to feel better. It also helps them maintain a healthy weight and have regular sleep and toilet habits. Caregivers can help seniors with dementia to complete these exercises successfully.
Benefits of exercises for seniors
Typical benefits of exercise for seniors include:
- Helps maintain or lose weight
- Reduces the impact of illness and chronic disease
- Enhances mobility, balance, and flexibility
- Improves sleep and rest
- Boosts mood and self-confidence
- Improves brain function
Exercising tips for seniors with health conditions
If you’re wondering what exercises you can participate in due to your health condition, don’t worry. Here are a few you try out based on your situation.
- Take a walk. You can do this with a loved one or caregiver
- Use exercise videos or check your local TV guide for programs that help seniors exercise.
- Dance to your favorite music
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Ensure everything fits well to prevent falls and injuries.
- Drink plenty of water and other fluids to stay hydrated.
If you have trouble walking, do simple tasks such as sweeping and dusting, riding a stationary bike, lifting weights, or holding household items. It’s important to be realistic about how much exercise you can handle at a time. Take breaks as much as you can and keep your body hydrated. If you have a favorite activity, do it more often.
Exercises are not just good for general well-being; they also help speed up recovery. That’s why you should exercise even when you have a health condition. If you need help exercising or a caregiver to take you through the process, contact us today.
