Essential Exercises for Elderly Health & Wellbeing

Exercise offers many mental, emotional, and physical health benefits for older adults, which means your elderly loved one should consider adding workouts to their weekly agenda. Below are some of the best exercises for seniors to perform and the benefits of each activity.

Walking

To strengthen their bones and boost their immune systems, seniors should incorporate walking into their workout routines. Regular exercise can prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of hypertension.

It’s best to walk according to one’s physical capabilities and avoid overworking the muscles and joints. The time of day when your loved one walks is just as important. Early-morning walks are usually more beneficial and easier to continue due to higher energy levels.

Many seniors find walking even more enjoyable with companions. For many families, hourly home care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Corio by Institute on Aging (IOA), we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home. 

Swimming

Swimming is often seen as a source of enjoyment, but incorporating swimming into a weekly exercise routine can also be beneficial for a senior’s health. The movements involved can boost cardiovascular health and increase flexibility. Because swimming is a low-impact form of exercise, it can reduce pain and make certain activities less difficult, such as walking, sleeping, and maintaining a healthy weight.

How often your loved one should swim and the number of laps they should do each time is determined by their health and the doctor’s recommendations. Your loved one’s skill levels are also key. For example, intermediate swimmers should typically perform ten to twenty laps per session.

Cycling

This exercise is considered one of the most effective ways for older adults to keep their blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check. By exercising their muscles, seniors can enhance their balance and minimize the odds of falls and fractures.

Indoor and outdoor cycling can reduce fear levels and increase self-esteem. Your loved one can take up cycling a few times per week, both indoors and outdoors, depending on their preferences and the access they have to each method.

Yoga

As physical abilities worsen, the risks of back pain and hypertension increase. Adding yoga to your loved one’s routine can alleviate back pain and prevent hypertension.

Yoga also lowers the odds of anxiety and depression, making it a great workout for older adults. These calming exercises can help your loved one achieve a clear, peaceful, and positive state of mind.

If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Corio by IOA, a leading provider of senior care. Our professional in-home caregivers are available around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

Leg Lifting

Whether your loved one does seated leg extension routines, standing knee lifts, chair squats, leg curls, or ankle circles, they can receive several benefits that come from various leg lifting routines, including strengthened muscles. Building muscle strength and balance is the goal, and weekly leg lift routines can help your loved one achieve that. Increasing the ability to stand or walk for longer periods with strong balance is vital, as it can lower the odds of falling.

Family caregivers sometimes need a break from their day-to-day responsibilities. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs overnight home care, Corio by IOA can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to accompany older adults to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. If you need professional home care in San Francisco for your loved one, our Connect Specialists are just a phone call away. Reach out to Corio by IOA today at (415) 750-4111.