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As We Age, Staying Fit is Important to Mobility and Independence


As we age, staying fit is important to both our mobility and our independence; and even if you haven’t spent your life as a serious fitness buff, experts say it doesn’t mean you can’t start now. However, it is important to check with your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise.

The Harvard Medical School recommends several exercises that provide all-around conditioning and don’t require a gym membership. Any one of them can help keep your weight under control, improve balance and range of motion, strengthen bones, protect joints, prevent bladder control problems, and even ward off memory loss.

Swimming is recommended for its low impact on the body as the water’s buoyancy supports the body and takes the strain off painful joints. Dr. I-Min Lee, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, explains, “Swimming is good for individuals with arthritis because it’s less weight bearing.” Researchers also report swimming can help improve our mental health. Water aerobics is another low impact way to stay in shape and burn calories.

Tai chi, a century’s old Chinese martial art, has also been shown to be beneficial for older adults. Along with incorporating movement and relaxation, experts say Tai chi helps improve balance, which is something we lose as we age. To find a class, check your community center, senior center, YMCA or local health clubs.

Other good physical activities for seniors include walking and strength training exercises. For strength training, experts say start slow and learn the proper form. To begin walking, wear the proper clothing for the weather including sun protection and good footwear. Finally, an often-overlooked area of wellness for seniors is maintaining strong pelvic floor muscles that can help prevent incontinence. Kegel exercises are beneficial for both men and women; check the Internet or talk to your doctor to learn how.

If you are looking for the finest senior housing Kirkland offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. MorningStar of Kirkland is a new 55+ community located in the beautiful Totem Lake area, bordered by Juanita Bay. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite luxury amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends. We make it easy to stay fit with a swimming pool, fitness center and studio, and sport courts. Please visit our website for contact info, list of amenities, photos, and map as well as information about MorningStar Senior Living.

MorningStar of Kirkland provides the very best in independent living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior housing Kirkland, WA has to offer.

Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/starting-to-exercise
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