Prioritizing Your Health Through Exercise
The ability to move our bodies and be active is a gift we may take for granted sometimes. Not only does exercise keep us in shape physically, but it keeps our mental health intact too. Unfortunately, as we age, is it common to experience less desire to be active. Because medical conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure, and heart disease are more prevalent in senior adults, it is easy to opt out of a daily workout. The good news is that health conditions don’t have to hinder your ability to be physically active. In fact, implementing physical activity can help improve the health conditions you may be dealing with. If you’re an adult over 60, facilities like Atherton Place, a senior living community in Marietta, GA, provide both enjoyable living and wellness amenities that promote exercise in a fun way.
Why Should Senior Adults Remain Active?
It is no different than why younger adults and children should be active. Physical fitness has a variety of benefits that keep us healthy and happy.
For seniors, being physically active is still important. Although it may be a little intimidating to someone over the age of 60, the rewards can be liberating. Exercise can help keep troubling health conditions under control while instilling confidence and freedom of mobility. Making exercise part of your routine will not only improve your health or that of your loved one, but is also a great way to stay social and make new friends.
What Kind of Exercise Is Best For Senior Adults?
There are a variety of ways to increase activity as a senior adult while still being safe. Below are a few different examples of exercise that cater to different physical limitations and potential health concerns.
Aerobics
Aerobics is a great way to keep your cardiovascular health in tip-top condition and is also a way to get an extra boost of stamina in your day-to-day life. Aerobic exercise comes in different forms, including walking, swimming, or running for those who are able. These are also great forms of social activity, should you want a partner to join you.
If endurance, balance, or joint issues are a problem, you may wish to look into programs that offer low-impact aerobics. Consider consulting with a physician before entering into any new exercise activities.
Pilates Or Yoga
Pilates and yoga are two great low-impact workout options that can be easy on the joints for those who experience discomfort. Yoga and Pilates focus on building up your strength, improving your balance, and encouraging your overall stability. They are great places to start if you are new to exercising or just getting back into it. If you struggle with arthritis or any other form of muscle stiffness, these are two excellent options for gentle stretching and improving flexibility.
When evaluating these options speak to the activity leader about any special needs. Some programs will offer special classes for seniors offering options, like “chair yoga” or tailoring stances to avoid excess stress on joints.
Low-Impact Weight Lifting Or Resistance Training
Any form of weight lifting or resistance is a good option if you are looking to build up your strength. And the good news is that this training comes in many different forms! If lifting weights is too much for you, bodyweight exercises can be just as effective.
Another great option is stretching exercises. These can be performed in your own home with just simple stretch bands. Before you start a stretching program, make sure to seek out the assistance of a trainer who can show you how to perform stretching exercises properly to avoid injury to joints.
Regardless of which form of exercise piques your interest, always be sure to consult with your doctor about any health or safety concerns. Atherton Place, which is a senior living community in Marietta, GA, is a member of the Wellstar Health System, offering a variety of excellent wellness and fitness amenities.
The Social Side of Exercise
Exercise, while important to your physical health, can also offer the positive benefits of socializing. As we age, often we may find our social circle getting smaller.
It may become harder to make new friends. Participating in group exercise classes not only helps to address loneliness, which can sometimes be an issue, but it also provides the benefit of additional motivation to stay active.
Taking a water aerobics class, playing tennis, or simply starting a walking routine with a group can offer fun ways to get exercise and stay connected socially at the same time. Getting your exercise in certainly does not have to be boring. Being with other community members allows for encouragement and a sense of safety for everyone involved.
How A Senior Living Community Can Help
A senior living community offers a great option for senior adults who wish to stay physically active while living an easier independent life without the hassles of upkeeping a home. Finding a community such as Atherton Place that offers a variety of amenities including exercise programs that promote health and wellness is critical to staying active and social over 60.
Find Your Home At Atherton Place
Atherton Place, the trusted senior living community of Marietta, GA, has been offering residents excellence in living for over 30 years. Not only do our residents enjoy a host of amenities that are a part of luxury senior living, but we also offer safely administered exercise and wellness programs that inspire confidence and fun.
As part of the Wellstar Healthcare System, we have access to some of the best health and wellness resources available in the Southeast. Through Wellstar Place, residents have access to a full-service wellness center complete with a heated pool. In addition, we have programs specially designed for seniors to encourage participation, socialization, and healthier living.
Come see our one-of-a-kind community for yourself. Click here to schedule a tour.
