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Ways to Stay Fit Throughout Your Senior Years

Ways To Stay Fit Throughout Your Senior Years

As you head towards retirement you may have plans to travel, spend time on the golf course, or to take up a long-lost hobby. One way to help ensure you can fully enjoy this time in your life, is by prioritizing physical fitness. By finding ways to stay fit throughout your senior years, you can help prevent age-related illnesses and injuries and stay healthy so you do more of the activities you love.

Exercise Recommendations for Older Adults

You should always consult with your doctor before starting any physical fitness program to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you. Your medical provider will probably have recommendations for the right types of activities for you. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that all adults do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week and, if older adults are unable to do so because of chronic conditions, they should be as physically active as their abilities and conditions allow. The CDC also recommends that older adults participate in multi-component physical activity that includes balance training as well as aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.

Getting Started a Fitness Program

The good news is that it is almost never too late to start realizing the benefits of exercise. If you already have an exercise regimen, keeping it in place is an excellent practice. For those who have not been active, getting started may be a little intimidating, especially if they have been injured or ill. However, by adding something as simple as a daily 15-20-minute walk you can lower your stress level, increase cardiovascular endurance, and add muscle tone. There are also senior exercise programs such as Silver Sneakers that are covered my many Medicare programs and are designed specifically for the wellness and physical fitness needs of those 65 and older. Local senior community centers also frequently offer reasonably priced flexibility classes and gym facilities.

The Best Types of Exercises for Older Adults

The ideal type of exercise is different for everyone but it’s important to choose something that you like and that you feel you can do on a regular basis. For those with joint issues, low-impact and non-weight bearing activities such as swimming, water aerobics, and stationary bicycling may be best. Yoga and Pilates can be excellent ways to improve flexibility, stability, and strength. If you are able to weight weights, this form of exercise can also be an excellent means to maintain and increase muscle mass. Heart healthy activities such as power walking, spinning, aerobics, and dance are open to every age group and can also improve your mood.

At the Law Offices of Alice A. Salvo, we have elder law estate attorneys who can help you connect with the right resources in the community to support your well-being. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.