Proper physical exercises and a balanced diet are among the main components of a healthy lifestyle for people of all ages.

As we age, our needs for healthy food and regular exercise gradually change. Still, a growing body of research indicates that regular exercise is vital for older adults. An active lifestyle can positively influence not only the maintenance but also the restoration of health.

This article is devoted to the National Senior Health Fitness Day. Today, you’ll learn which exercises you can advise your patients and which activities can be dangerous for an older adult’s health.

Exercise Ball

Recently, this mild form of exercise has been gaining more and more popularity among the older generation. Correct execution of the exercise can improve muscle strength, greater mobility, balance, and flexibility. The exercise is relatively simple to complete. Unlike traditional forms of yoga, this exercise provides light stress on muscles and joints.

Some sources claim that the exercise ball or chair yoga has a positive effect on the mental health of older people. Also, seniors who do this exercise regularly boast better sleep quality and inner lightness throughout.

Training with Resistance Bands

Resistance bands or expanders are elastic rubber bands  that can positively affect various muscle groups during the corresponding exercises.

Training with an expander is convenient and one of the simplest forms of exercise that are especially popular with the elderly. Moreover, these exercises can be performed both indoors and outdoors. They are perfect for improving posture as well as increasing muscle and joint mobility.

Walking

With the onset of May, many of us start taking evening walks. Walking is one of the minor stressful types of exercise available for people of all ages.

Sometimes walking is more difficult for an older person due to complications with a musculoskeletal medication. However, if your patient’s health allows some short walks, be sure to include this exercise in your daily tasks.

Daily walking benefits include strengthening muscle groups, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It is also a great way to have a good time with your patient outdoors.

Exercise That Is Harmful to Elderly People

Not every exercise is suitable for seniors. It makes no sense to apply the most popular training programs that are suitable for young people.

Caregivers should understand that an older adult’s body may experience increased stress even with the simplest exercises designed to strengthen the muscles of the core, help gain or lose weight.

Here are some exercises that are not suitable for your patient:

• Bench press
• Leg press
• Long-distance running
• Deadlift
• High-intensity training
• Power clean

Remember that even a minimal intake of daily exercise can be effective in improving your patient’s health. However, before recommending any activity, be sure to check with family members or a healthcare provider for possible restrictions.

For More information on how you can keep you and your senior healthy and in shape, contact us today for more tips.