Skip to main content

The Benefits of Staying Physically Active


At MorningStar of Hillsboro, we recognize that daily exercise is essential to the wellbeing of our residents. Research backs up that claim as the National Institute of Health (NIA) explains that seniors who stay physically active and regularly exercise receive long-term health benefits. They state that, “it can even improve the health for some older people who already have diseases and disabilities.”

Taking part in physical activities such as walking your dog, using the stairs, or gardening as well as regular formal exercises such as weight training, tai chi, or aerobics classes are both beneficial to seniors. Studies have found an increase in mental capacity and a slower mental decline in older adults who stay physically active as it can help to increase blood flow to all parts of the body including the brain. The NIA also states that exercise may delay or prevent diseases like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and colon cancer, and help to reduce death and hospitalization rates.

In addition, physical activities and exercises may help to improve healing in seniors, provide better balance and reduce falls, and enhance their overall quality of life. Furthermore, the research finds that it is never too late to start exercising to receive the benefits.

Another thing to remember is that you do not need to have full mobility to start exercising as there are many exercises designed to overcome individual limitations. Activities should include modified stretching exercises to increase flexibility and cardiovascular exercises to raise the heart rate and increase endurance. In addition, weight training builds muscle and bone mass, improves balance and helps prevent falls.

At MorningStar of Hillsboro, our stylish senior apartments come in a range of floor plans including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations. Amenities include chef-inspired meals, restaurant-style dining, fitness center, underground parking, swimming pool, art studio, bistro/bar and more. In addition, we offer a range of wellness programs and activities designed to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. If you are looking at retirement communities in Hillsboro, OR, MorningStar may be the place for you. Contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest retirement communities Hillsboro, OR offers.

Sources: nia.nih.gov/health
helpguide.org/articles/exercise-fitness/chair-exercises-and-limited-mobility-fitness.htm

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Be an Active Partner in Your Medical Care

Experts suggest that a good way to reduce medical errors regarding your care or that of a loved one is to be an active partner in the process whether in a hospital setting, doctors’ office or the pharmacy. In fact, a study showed 7% of hospitalized patients experienced an event that was considered preventable which negatively affected their health. Furthermore, harmful errors in primary and outpatient health care settings are typically related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines. Mistakes associated with misdiagnosis result in delayed treatment for the real problem and having the wrong medications prescribed or supplied can cause serious complications. However, it is important to keep in mind that some medical errors are a result of patients failing to disclose all the medications they take including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Another problem is the failure to reveal pertinent details regarding a person’s prior medical history as well as lifestyle habits s...

Adjust Your Attitude toward “Growing Older”

New studies suggest our attitude toward growing older may affect how well we do with our own aging process. Researchers report findings that show those who negatively view aging may have a higher likelihood of developing changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease . One such study was published in the American Psychological Association’s journal, Psychology and Aging. Its authors suggest if a person shifts their belief about aging to a more positive view; it may be beneficial in helping to mitigate the ravages of Alzheimer’s. Associate professor of public health and psychology at the Yale School of Public Health and the study’s leader, Becca Levy said, “We believe it is the stress generated by the negative beliefs about aging that individuals sometimes internalize from society that can result in pathological brain changes.” She says while these findings are concerning, “it is encouraging to realize that these negative beliefs about aging can be mitigated, and positive beli...

Companion Living Available at MorningStar’s Community in Houston

MorningStar at River Oaks recognizes that for some, assisted living can seem out of reach for them financially, which is why we strive to help families find ways to make it affordable. One of the solutions we offer is “Companion Living.” This is where two unrelated people of the same sex share a suite, whether in assisted living or memory care. Obviously, it is ideal if you have a relative, friend or acquaintance that is looking for the same type of situation and you can pair up to share a suite with them. However, we know that option is not always available, so we step in and help find a suitable companion for you. We carefully pair residents together based on common backgrounds and interests as that provides a good basis for building a friendship. With this living arrangement, the rent of the shared suite is split. Beyond the financial advantage, companion living can help ease the transition to a senior living community . The presence of a roommate can encourage more confident ...