Age is But a Number: 7 Ways Seniors Can Stay Active

According to health experts, regular exercise is key to maintaining lifelong health. Between fostering good bone and muscle strength, increasing your energy levels, reducing your risk of chronic diseases, and improving cognitive function, consistent physical activity is crucial for people of all ages.

Some people falsely believe that the older you become, the less physical activity is possible, as mobility issues creep up. However, elderly folk should be engaging in a regular fitness routine to keep their bodies strong and improve their mental functions. Unfortunately, many older folks struggle to find senior-friendly exercises that are low impact or adaptable, making it challenging to stay active. Luckily, there are plenty of tried-and-true ways to move your body as an older person.

If you're struggling to find the perfect fitness regime for your body's needs, read on for five ways to stay active as a senior citizen. 

Invest in a secure mobility aid

Some seniors may find it challenging to move around freely as they age due to mobility issues, like arthritis, back pains, and dizziness. Luckily, mobility aids like walkers and canes are available for elderly folk who want to stay active despite any physical ailments afflicting them. However, you'll want to make sure you invest in a secure, high-quality aid, like stand-up walkers for seniors, to avoid malfunction or discomfort.

Start slow

If you're just beginning a new fitness routine, it's essential to start slow and steady. Even a few minutes per day can make all the difference, especially if you incorporate stretching. Starting the day with stretches can open up your joints and prepare you for any other activities you have planned. Additionally, short walks and low-impact aerobics are perfect for seniors hoping to adopt a consistent routine.

Focus on balance and strength

When fine-tuning your fitness regime, it's critical to pencil in exercises to help improve your balance and muscle strength. As an older person, your body is prone to weakening and imbalance, especially if you've been inactive for long periods. However, you can combat stiffness and dizziness by practicing exercises like one-legged stands (with support), light swimming, yoga, and low-weight lifting. 

Volunteer or attend local events

One way to stay active without participating in traditional exercising is getting engaged in your local community. Helping out a local shelter or food bank enables you to move your body while socializing and giving back. Additionally, assisting with local events allows you to meet people in your neighborhood while lightly walking to stay active. 

Grow a garden

Another excellent way to move your body without hitting the gym is tending to a garden. Although it may not seem like physical activity, the act of reaching down, digging, and carrying equipment is equal to light weight lifting or squatting. Plus, at the end of the day, you'll have delicious produce and a healthy body to match. 

Stimulate your mind

In addition to physical health, seniors should exercise their mental capabilities to stay sharp and improve their quality of life. Consider puzzles, memory games, or even a musical instrument to enhance hand-eye coordination and mental cognition. 

Wrapping up

Staying active as an older person is just as important as fitness in your youth. Keep your body in tip-top shape as you age by engaging in regular physical and mental exercises to keep your body and mind sharp and healthy.