Maintaining independence is vital for many elderly family members. Most have been independent for many years and the idea of relying on other people too much can be discouraging. If that’s the case for your senior, exercise might be the one thing she’s missing in order to be as independent as she wants to be. Make sure that you talk with her doctor before beginning an exercise regimen to make sure that she’s healthy enough to be more active.

 

 

Maintains Muscle Strength

Aging tends to create some circumstances that your elderly family member would like to avoid, such as losing muscle mass. Even a mild exercise program can help your senior to maintain a good portion of the muscle mass that she already has. It’s not about bulking up even more, but that can certainly be a goal.

 

Improves Balance

Having great balance keeps your senior from being at greater risk for a fall. Some exercises are especially geared toward balance, such as yoga and tai chi. Focusing on those types of exercises can help your elderly family member to improve her ability to stay upright when she needs to.

 

Increases Energy

Many people find it odd that exercising can help to boost energy levels, but it’s true. For one thing, your senior is able to sleep better because her muscles have gotten a workout. She’ll also start to crave healthier foods that feed her body well. Add to that the boost in energy from getting her blood pumping and your senior has a tried and true way to get more energy.

 

Boosts Mood

Exercise helps to release chemicals such as endorphins that work to improve mood and emotional health. Along with other treatments, exercise can also help to relieve mild depression. It can take a few weeks of working out to see all of the biggest benefits, though.

 

Can Slow Down Some Chronic Illnesses

Some chronic health problems, like diabetes, osteoporosis, and circulatory illnesses, can benefit from an exercise routine. Regular, consistent exercise is best when your senior is exercising for health conditions since she won’t see results overnight.

Exercising alone isn’t all that fun. If you can’t exercise with your senior, consider asking friends, family, or even elder care providers to be her exercise buddy.

 

If you or an aging family member are considering elderly care in Buckhead, GA, please contact the caring staff at Caring Companions of Atlanta 470-514-5954.