ARTICLES / General / The
Surprising Extra Benefits.../
Other ArticlesImprove quality of life
A new study has found that previously
sedentary senior citizens who incorporated exercise into
their lifestyles not only improved physical function,
but experienced psychological benefits as well. (Source:
SeniorJournal.com)
Increase balance
This helps prevent falls, a major cause
of broken hips and other injuries that often lead to
disability and loss of independence. (Source: Senior
Journal.com)
Increase life expectancy
Benefits are greater among the most
active persons, but are also evident among those who
reported moderate activity, according to the CDC.
A little goes a long way
“When it comes to exercise for seniors,
consistency is more important than intensity,” explains
Montgomery. Researchers have found that you don’t have
to engage in strenuous exercises to gain health
benefits. “Moderate exercise, such as walking five or
more days a week, can lead to substantial health
benefits. Even brief amounts of physical activity, say
10 minutes at a time, can be beneficial.”
Never too late
According to the National Institute of
Aging, exercise isn’t just for seniors in the younger
age range. People who are 80, 90 or older can also
benefit greatly from physical activity. Exercising
regularly can help prevent or delay some diseases and
disabilities as people age. In some cases, it can
improve health and independence for older people who
already have diseases and disabilities, if it’s done on
a long-term, regular basis.
“The key is to find something geared to
your fitness level that you enjoy doing,” says
Montgomery. “And it’s important to start at a level you
can manage and work your way up slowly.” Start by seeing
your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
Tips for sticking with an exercise
program:
Have a plan
Identify obstacles and find ways around
them. For instance, your fitness routine easily could
run off track during the holidays and vacations. Look
for hotels with a health club, and include a walking or
biking tour of scenic or historic places in your
vacation plans.
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