As we age, we can lose the ability to move around as well as we used to. Poor balance and minimal joint-flexibility can affect a senior’s ability to perform tasks of daily living, such as putting groceries away or bathing, but they can also lead to medical emergencies, like falls. To avoid injuries and keep healthy, seniors should incorporate some type of daily exercise into their routine.
Functional fitness is a great option for seniors. Functional fitness exercises focus on core strength and balance, along with endurance and joint-flexibility. These types of exercises emphasize low-impact moves that help to strengthen areas of the body where seniors may lose strength and movement as they age. Having a strong core is key in avoiding falls and any injuries that can result from them.
If your loved one prefers to work out around others, most gyms offer senior-specific classes or individual personal training. If working out at home is a safe option, this workout is a great one to start with. Remember to talk to your doctor before starting anything new when it comes to exercise and diet.
Thank you Susan Abercrombie! I agree, exercise is important! And yes, I have fallen in the past. I use a walker to get around because I do have a balance problem! It would be great if in the future a Cottage Blog could describe several exercises especially for older seniors. I mean seniors in their 80s and 90s. I happen to be 82 years old. I take chair exercise classes 4 times a week. I enjoyed your blog!
Susan E. Jones Helms (former Cottage resident in Montgomery, Alabama)