Exercises can Help Seniors Maintain their Independence

As we grow older, many people begin to slow down. However we know a lack of exercise and activity can cause reduced muscle strength and flexibility, and lead to health problems that make beginning exercise that much more difficult. In fact a recent government study estimated “nearly 80% of American adults do not get the recommended amounts of exercise each week, with adults 65 and older being the least likely to engage in a regular exercise routine.”

This is why experts recommend older adults make a plan to stay more active and commit to it. Before you begin any new exercise or activity, talk to your doctor as your health challenges may make some physical activities not possible. Guidance from your healthcare providers can help develop a plan most effective in achieving overall conditioning despite any limited endurance.

Areas to focus on include strengthening leg muscles to improve mobility and balance, which is part of maintaining your independence as strong legs support so many basic everyday activities, such as sitting down, standing up, and walking. In addition, safe upper body exercises are important in giving a person the strength to get up from an armchair or carrying and lifting items as part of performing routine household activities. Exercises focusing on maintaining or improving balance are also important in reducing a person’s risk for a fall.

*Before starting any new exercise, please consult with your healthcare provider.

MorningStar of Pasadena is a vibrant 55+ community with 149 bright suites for independent living and assisted living. We are an all-inclusive community, boasting a dining service under the direction of our Executive Chef, a wide range of floor plans to meet residents’ varying needs, and onsite amenities and care services for stress-free retirement years. We invite you to visit our website for information on our community as well as pricing and availability for the area’s top independent living and assisted living in Pasadena, CA.

Source: hurusa.com/5-of-the-best-strength-exercises-for-senior-independence

Comments

The Risks of Undetected SMIs

Did you know 45% of heart attacks are a “silent myocardial infarction (SMI)” and are likely to go undetected? Expert says they are more common in men than women, and a person typically does not experience the intensity felt during a normal heart attack. Often it is mistaken for heartburn, indigestion and other age-related aches and pains. A study published a few years ago in the Journal of the American Medical Association , found evidence of men suffering from undetected mild heart attacks. The study involved almost 2,000 people ages 45 to 84 (half of whom were men) who were free of any signs of cardiovascular disease. When doctors examined the group after ten years, “8% had myocardial scars, which are evidence of a heart attack. Most surprising was that 80% of these people were unaware of their condition.” The presence of myocardial scars was five times higher in men than in women. While symptoms can be mild and brief, experts say to seek immediate medic...

Balance Problems Are Common in Older Adults

The statistics of older adults taking a fall each year are alarming, and consequences can impact the person’s independence, or in the worst case, be deadly. Experts say as we age, our bodies may start to feel less stable due to things like a loss of muscle mass, lack of flexibility and slower reflexes. Poor balance and dizziness can also be a result of medical problems including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, poor vision, thyroid, nerves, or blood vessels as well as medications. Another culprit interfering with balance is inner ear problems. The labyrinth is a part of the inner ear that controls balance and when it becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause lots of problems including vertigo. The condition called Labyrinthitis generally is a result of other issues such as head injuries, viral or bacterial infections, and circulatory system conditions like strokes or low blood pressure. The National Institute on Aging says families and caregivers should be on the lookout for an older ...

The Role of Sleep in Managing Chronic Pain for Elderly Patients

Sleep plays a critical role in the management of chronic pain, especially among the elderly. At facilities like senior housing Kirkland and senior living Kirkland , understanding and addressing the interplay between sleep and pain is key to improving residents' quality of life. Impact of Sleep on Pain Perception Research shows that poor sleep can increase sensitivity to pain. This is particularly relevant for seniors, as they are more likely to suffer from both sleep disturbances and chronic pain conditions. Good sleep helps to restore the body's natural pain control mechanisms, making it an essential element of pain management strategies. Strategies for Improving Sleep in Elderly Patients To enhance sleep quality and manage pain effectively, several strategies can be implemented. First, establishing a regular sleep schedule helps to regulate the body's internal clock and improve sleep quality. It's also important to create a sleep-conducive environment—quiet, dark, and...

MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Search This Blog