Stay Active and Beat the Heat this Summer
Summer is the perfect season to enjoy the outdoors. Whether it's taking an evening stroll or planting vegetables in a garden, it feels great to enjoy some sun, fresh air and be active!
Did you know that being active can prolong your life? It's true. Staying active reduces your risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. Aiming for two and a half hours of physical activity each week will improve your mood and health. With the increased amount of sunlight we get during the summer, it's tempting to do all of our usual activities outdoors, but that isn't always the wisest option. Especially when temperatures get too high; this puts the body at risk for heatstroke if proper precautions aren't taken.
Visiting Angels Crystal Lake knows that your senior loved ones are eager to enjoy the summer season and get active. We want to share some of our favorite summer activities that will work their bodies while keeping them cool.
Stay active while staying cool
Low-Impact Yoga - Yoga is a great stress reliever and is a physical activity enjoyed by people of all ages and walks of life. If you've never tried yoga before, join a class and get started this summer. The great news is yoga has plenty of benefits for your senior loved one's health! Yoga can strengthen bones, improve sleeping habits, reduce stress, improve flexibility, and lessen the risk for depression. Not only is yoga relaxing, but it's also a great way to develop a better sense of self.
Virtual Exercise Classes – Many people prefer to work out from the comfort of home. Attending a virtual class will give your loved one the freedom to be active at their own pace. Many virtual classes also allow participants to modify workouts to meet them in their physical journeys. It's important that your senior loved one finds a routine that works for them to prevent injury. If you believe your senior loved one could use a companion during their daily exercise, a Visiting Angels Crystal Lake caregiver can be there to offer support where needed.
Walking - This low-impact activity can be done daily. Taking a stroll through the neighborhood is a great way to clear your mind. While it's best to stay away from a walk in the middle of the day due to the summer heat, early morning or evening walks are both great alternatives. If you choose, you can also join your senior loved one on their walk and use the moment as a chance to bond and catch up.
Swimming - Swimming is a great way to stay cool and active during the hot summer months. There are also many health benefits associated with swimming. Those who have rheumatoid arthritis have experienced health improvements in the discomfort associated with arthritis following hydrotherapy. Water-based exercise can benefit older adults by improving their quality of life and decreasing disability. It also maintains or improves the bone health of post-menopausal women with chronic diseases.
Dance - Simply turning on your favorite song and dancing is a precious experience. Dancing is also healthy for your heart and gets your blood pumping. This activity can also turn into a trip down memory lane that the whole family will enjoy. Encourage your senior loved one to show off dance moves from their generation and have the rest of your family follow suit. This bonding experience will get your bodies moving and create a memory that will never be forgotten.
Visiting Angels Crystal Lake Home Care Services
Visiting Angels Crystal Lake believes that your senior loved ones should enjoy this summer season as much as possible! We'll work alongside you and your loved ones to ensure they can do so in a safe and healthy way. We understand that your loved ones may not be capable of doing all they once could, so we will be there to help where needed. If your loved one could use some assistance at home this summer, please visit us online or give us a call at 815-479-0312 to get started.