As the years pass, remaining active becomes more important than ever, as it impacts physical and emotional health, as well as general quality of life. Unfortunately, many seniors fall prey to prolonged sitting, which can cause a variety of health issues, including muscular weakness, joint stiffness, and even an increased risk of chronic diseases. The good news is there are simple and enjoyable ways to add more movement to a senior’s daily routine, especially when they are supported by senior home care providers and loved ones.
Start Small
If seniors are more used to a sedentary way of life, starting to move more often may be overwhelming at first. Thankfully, however, even small amounts of movement can help, which allows them to get used to the process. Senior home care can encourage them to get up and get moving while in the home. At the same time, they can also challenge seniors to set a time to remind them to get up and stretch every 30 minutes. At the end of the day, those short spurts of movement mount up, giving them the momentum they need to try to move even more the next day.
Incorporate Movement Into Daily Tasks
While seniors might balk at walking around the block, there are other ways to add movement to their day. For instance, if they still cook, they can gently march in place or do some gentle stretches while moving around the kitchen. Additionally, active tasks like sweeping and folding clothes also allow them to take their actions further.
Focus on Gentle Exercises That Build Strength and Flexibility
For seniors, gentle activities can build strength and flexibility without being too taxing, including walking and stretching as mentioned above. To add some variety into the mix, they may also enjoy yoga or Tai Chi, both of which can be done while sitting or standing, depending on the senior’s needs. Additionally, senior home care can help seniors find videos online that let them in their homes to try out yoga and tai chi to see how they like it.
Add Socialization
Having a companion, such as senior home care or joining a group, makes physical activity more enjoyable and sustainable. Whether it’s a senior walking club, a dance class, or an exercise program at the local community center, the social aspect might help seniors stay motivated.
Use Technology to Stay Engaged
Wearable fitness trackers and smartphone apps can help seniors track their exercise and create daily goals or challenges for themselves.
How Senior Home Care Helps
Beyond the ways mentioned above, senior home care can also ensure seniors are safely doing the exercises and that they’re staying hydrated. Additionally, they can encourage seniors to talk with their medical team if something doesn’t quite feel right during exercising or if they have questions about what they can and can’t do.
Small, frequent motions throughout the day can significantly improve a senior’s physical and mental health. Plus, with the help of senior home care services, seniors can try various activities to see which fit their needs and preferences best, making being active a natural part of life.
Sources: https://sixtyandme.com/break-up-sitting-sessions/
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/activity/sitting-down/spend-less-time-sitting-down
https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/health-conditions/obesity/stay-active-you-get-older-quick-tips
https://kpwashingtonresearch.org/index.php/news-and-events/blog/2021/helping-older-adults-improve-health-sitting-less
If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Home Care Services in San Diego CA, please call the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today! 1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)
Canaan Home Care – A Premier Provider of Senior Home Care in the La Jolla, Del Mar, San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Tustin, and Manhattan Beach areas.
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