Well-Being

We all hear day in and day out how beneficial exercise is to our overall health.  But what about for older adults?  Is it beneficial for them too? The answer is ABSOLUTELY!  Exercise is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself, young AND old.  Staying active and exercising regulary can prevent or delay many disabilties and diseases.  This is one healthy aging topic that keeps getting discussed within the health care world.  Some older adults are afraid that exercise will be too strenuous or that physical activity will harm them.  Older adults actually hurt their health by not exercising.  Before beginning any exercise program, it is important to discuss the details with your physician and especially if you begin a program and you notice any symptoms or changes that were not there before. 
So, what are some examples of exercises for older adults?

Strengthening Exercise:  Build muscles as well as increase metabolism
Balance Exercise:  Build leg muscles and prevent falls
Stretching Exercise: Gives you more freedom of movement to do the things you like to do
Endurance Exercise:  Any activity such as walking, jogging, swimming, raking, which all increase your heart rate

Taking your pet for a walk in the neighborhood or parking further from the grocery store are just a few of the examples to incorporate in your daily routine.  Increasing your physical activity for 30 days can be significant to your health. 

Happy Exercising!

Source:  National Institute on Aging