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.

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

Many families prefer Comfort Keepers® when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver, British Columbia. 

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones, we can help with 24-hour care. Comfort Keepers Vancouver also provides home care services like respite care, overnight care, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care, personal care, and more! 

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

Personal and empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our clients’ needs. Comfort Keeper’s philosophy is to elevate the human spirit, and our caregivers ensure your loved one experiences a better quality of life.

Trained caregivers help provide our senior clients with personal home care to help maintain the highest possible quality of life, keeping 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).

Bring The Best Home Care Assistance for Seniors Right Where You Live with Comfort Keepers®

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide elder care in homes throughout Vancouver, keeping 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. 

Personal Care 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.

Accredited and Quality Respite Care Available 24/7 for British Columbia Families

Accreditation Canada has awarded Comfort Keepers® Vancouver with Exemplary Standing. This designation is only achieved after an organization’s policies, procedures, and processes undergo a thorough evaluation by industry experts to ensure they meet or exceed the stringent quality standards set by Accreditation Canada for Home Care companies.

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