According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults 65 and older should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity weekly. Remaining physically active may help prevent or delay common age-related health problems. Developing and sticking to a routine can feel challenging, though.
To hold yourself accountable, consider exploring senior fitness programs. Joining health programs for elderly seniors can help you find options that cater to your needs.
What are the benefits of fitness programs for seniors? Read on to find out!
Health programs for elderly seniors allow adults to stay physically active in a supportive, safe, and structured environment. Participating in these classes may help:
Regular exercise can help you manage a chronic health condition. These may include arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes.
Over time, your strength, balance, and flexibility will improve. You may have an easier time performing tasks and maintaining your independence. This can produce a sense of accomplishment and boost your self-esteem.
Here are a few other benefits you may experience while engaging in senior-friendly physical activities.
Exercising can benefit seniors of all ages. It may help lower blood pressure and slow the body's loss of muscle and bone mass.
According to the National Council on Aging, we start losing bone faster than we can build it after age 50. Women can lose up to 20% of their bone density within five to seven years following menopause. As your bone density decreases, your risk of a fracture increases.
Strength training may help counteract this loss. You can restore bone density, reduce your risk of fractures, and enhance your balance.
Being physically active may help reduce the pain and stiffness caused by arthritis. You can choose arthritis-friendly exercises like:
Exercise will take pressure off your joints by strengthening the surrounding muscles. This may ease joint inflammation, reducing stiffness and pain.
Joining senior exercise classes may help prevent chronic diseases, including:
One study published in the National Library of Medicine linked moderate exercise with a lower incidence of acute respiratory illness. Exercise may boost your immune system and protect you from illness.
According to this study, exercise may protect against cognitive decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Some health programs for elderly seniors incorporate mind-strengthening activities, including:
Engaging the mind can stimulate or lead to the growth of new neural pathways. Promoting neuroplasticity can improve memory retention and focus.
Exercising increases the body's production of endorphins. These brain chemicals can boost your mood. Your body will also release neurotransmitters, including:
These neurotransmitters can help you feel calm, focused, and rewarded. While exercising, you'll be distracted from worries, leading to reduced feelings of stress and anxiety. Instead, exercising will boost your mood, reduce muscle tension, and improve your outlook on life.
Senior fitness programs can improve your strength and balance. You'll have an easier day performing tasks, allowing you to maintain your independence as you age.
Choose senior exercise classes that will improve your strength, mobility, and balance. As you grow stronger, your increased independence will improve your self-esteem and quality of life. You can enjoy fun activities at your senior living community, further enhancing your daily routine.
Exercising can help with promoting senior wellness in every aspect. The above physical, mental, and emotional rewards can benefit your quality of life. You can enjoy your golden years feeling healthy and strong.
Senior exercise classes are designed with an understanding of the evolving needs of elderly individuals. You can find options that align with different abilities, levels of mobility, and health conditions. Each program follows a tailored approach with effectiveness, enjoyment, and safety in mind.
These fitness classes for seniors may include a range of exercise modalities, including:
Meeting this variety of modalities ensures each class addresses common age-related concerns. For example, loss of muscle mass and balance issues.
These classes embrace the principles of customization and inclusivity. You can use modifications or follow progressions based on the intensity level you prefer. This can help limit injuries while allowing you to meet personal needs and goals.
Here are some senior exercise classes you may enjoy. Explore your senior living community's wellness program to discover more options.
Aerobic exercise programs can boost your heart and breathing rates, benefiting your cardiovascular health. These classes often involve continuous, rhythmic movements to engage your muscles. Examples include:
Consider starting your own walking group. You can enjoy nature, chat with friends, and explore the area while exercising.
These programs can improve your flexibility and range of motion. Potential activities include:
These exercises can improve your posture, increase joint mobility, and reduce your risk of injuries. They can help you feel relaxed, benefiting your emotional and mental health.
Join a strength training program to build your muscle strength. These programs can involve:
Resistance can challenge and strengthen your muscles. Becoming stronger can increase your bone density and improve your balance.
Exploring senior fitness programs can benefit your mental, physical, and emotional health. You can improve your balance and strength, potentially reducing your risk of injury or illness.
Want to discover fun fitness programs for seniors? Consider Liberty Court your new home.
Our senior living community offers comfortable living options, personalized services, and services designed to meet your every need. Contact our team now to schedule your tour!