Physical Activity For Seniors: The Importance of Staying Active and Strong

Vancouver Senior Home Care  |  June 24, 2020

What Every Senior Needs to Know About the Importance of Exercise and Physical Activity

What are the benefits of physical activity for seniors? Countless studies have proven that exercise plays a pivotal role in maintaining physical and mental strength in senior years. Exercise has been shown to contribute to a longer and better life. Even small amounts of regular physical activity help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy and vitality.

The CDC estimates that 4/5 of the most expensive health conditions in seniors could be prevented or managed with exercise. Sadly, only 35% of adults over 65 include physical exercise in their daily routine.

The Benefits of Physical Activity for Seniors

Regular movement can help your senior loved one quality of life. Exercise helps to maintain muscle tone and bone health, build stamina, and lead a vibrant, healthier life. Physical activity also helps seniors continue to live independently at home for years to come.

By engaging in senior-friendly exercises of their choice, your parent can expect to:

• Improve mental health
• Prevent or improve symptoms of already existing conditions such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosis
• Reduce the severity of pain and stiffness associated with arthritis
• Decrease the risk of falls and improve balance and gait

However, seniors embarking on a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. A healthcare professional can recommend adequate, low-impact activities for seniors. Before beginning make sure seniors speak with their doctor before introducing changes to their lifestyle.

Four Types of Physical Activity for Seniors

There are numerous ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, and stretching into a daily routine.  Most of these exercises can take place at home with little effort. Some great exercise ideas include:

Type #1 – Aerobic

Aerobic exercise, dancing, or walking in place are great ways to improve heart health and lose weight.

Type #2 – Strength-building exercises

Many easy strength-building exercises can be performed with common household items or by using body weight, so no fancy or expensive equipment is needed to get your loved one started.

Type #3 – Stretching

Not only does stretching prevent soreness after exercising but it also significantly increases flexibility and range of motion. What is more, tons of senior-friendly stretching exercise routines can be found online and performed at home.

Type #4 – Balance exercises

Balance exercises, including Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact regimens, help prevent falls, improve mobility, and contribute to boosting overall health.

Comfort Keepers® is the Best Senior Home Care Provider in Vancouver, BC

Comfort Keepers® is the preferred choice for many families when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver. 

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with Respite Care, Overnight Care, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care, End of Life Care, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Companion Care and Interactive Caregiving™

Trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ delivers a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Our philosophy is to elevate the human spirit and our caregivers will be there every step of the way to ensure your loved one has a better quality of life. Personal and empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. 

Physical Activity for Seniors and Senior Homecare in Vancouver, BC

Learn more about our unique service which offers personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers® Vancouver office.

Comfort Keepers® Brings You The Best Home Care Assistance for Seniors Right Where You Live.

We are proud to provide home care throughout Vancouver that keeps seniors safe in their homes. We provide home care for the seniors of Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Langley, Maple Ridge, and Richmond please call (604) 689-8609. 

Quality and Accredited Respite Care for British Columbia Families

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver has been accredited with Exemplary Standing with Accreditation Canada. Accreditation is an intensive process in which industry experts examine an organization’s processes, policies, and procedures against quality standards. To achieve accredited status, Comfort Keepers® offices met or exceeded the rigorous standards for Home Care companies, as defined by Accreditation Canada. 

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