Tips For Staying Active As You Get Older
Being physically active is important at any age but is particularly key as you age. Ageing brings with it many potential health problems, but staying active can help to delay or even prevent them. It also keeps your muscles strong and balance good, both of which are vital for ensuring that you can continue to do daily activities and live independently for as long as possible.
The NHS recommends that older adults do some form of physical activity every single day. This might sound daunting at first, but the good news is that there are lots of simple ways to up the amount of exercise you do, regardless of your current fitness levels. Here are some top tips.
Do simple exercises at home
One of the easiest ways to keep active as you get older is to do some simple exercises around the house. Many of these can be performed even if you’re not very fit or mobile. In fact, just making sure that you stand up regularly throughout the day and walk around your home can have big benefits. Gardening is another great activity to try if you have some outdoor space.
Where possible, it’s best to aim for a mixture of aerobic and strength exercises, as well as basic stretches. It’s also important to work on your balance, for example, by practising standing on one leg (you can place a hand on the wall to steady yourself if this is too challenging).
Join an elderly fitness class
If you prefer something a bit more social and structured, joining an exercise class in your local area might be ideal. These days there are plenty of options specifically designed for older people, including senior yoga, tai chi, and pilates, as well as swimming sessions and chair-based exercise classes. Your instructor will be able to tailor each individual exercise to suit different ability levels by suggesting ways that you can make them easier or more challenging as appropriate. For those who require assisted living, there’s a top-quality signature care home that offers specialist exercise classes for residents to make it as easy as possible for you to stay fit and healthy.
Try new activities
Many people find exercise a little bit dull, which in turn makes them reluctant to do it. If that sounds familiar, try to break out of the rut by having a go at something new. Taking part in novel activities is a fantastic way to not only stay active but also give your brain a bit of a workout too. Whether it’s a form of exercise you’ve never tried before or an activity you haven’t done for many years, you’re never too old to learn new skills!
Browse your local newspaper or go online and see what you can find in your neighbourhood. If you hate it, no worries – you don’t have to go again! However, if you’re lucky, you might just find yourself a fun new hobby that will keep you in great shape for years to come.
Take regular walks
One of the best forms of exercise for older people is also the simplest: walking. It offers a whole wealth of benefits, including stronger muscles and bones, better balance, and a lower risk of conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. In fact, walking is not just good for your physical wellbeing – it can also boost your mental health. Being out in nature, breathing fresh air, and getting sunlight on your skin has been shown to lower levels of anxiety, stress, and depression, plus improve your mood more generally.
It doesn’t have to be a strenuous hike either – even a stroll around the local park can work wonders. You can always build up the distance as your fitness levels improve. Try to make a short walk part of your daily routine, and you’re sure to notice the benefits. Just ensure you wear comfortable and supportive shoes, plus clothing that’s appropriate for the weather!
Make it social
Turning your exercise routine into a social event can not only make it more enjoyable, but it also means you’re less likely to quit. One option is to go to an exercise class (as discussed above), but you can also keep things casual by simply inviting a friend to go for a walk with you. Having an active social life doesn’t just help to keep you fit. It has been shown to improve your mental health, stave off cognitive decline, and could even lengthen your lifespan. So pick up the phone and arrange an active meetup today!
