Adding More Movement to Your Day

The arrival of spring brings a renewed sense of energy. Warmer days, fresh blooms, and longer daylight hours all help to boost our motivation, making it easier to stay active. Staying active and exercising regularly is important for the physical, mental, and emotional health of all seniors. Exercise not only helps seniors prevent and manage chronic health conditions, but it also helps seniors improve their balance and strength, allowing them to live independently longer. 

As spring approaches, it's an excellent time for seniors to evaluate their activity levels. Remember, staying active is not about pursuing intense exercise but rather about staying consistent and finding enjoyable activities that will keep you motivated to move. If you’re a senior, we encourage you to enjoy the season by trying new ways to move your body. Below are a few fun and easy ways for seniors to stay active this spring. 

Go for a Walk 

Walking is one of the simplest and most accessible ways for seniors to stay active. This low-impact exercise doesn’t require any fitness equipment and can be done anywhere, anytime. With the arrival of warmer spring days, it’s the perfect time for seniors to lace up their walking shoes and enjoy the outdoors. Take a daily stroll around your neighborhood or explore trails at a local park, such as Robious Landing Park or Mid-Lothian Mines Park. 

Try Gardening 

Nothing says spring quite like getting your hands in the soil. Gardening offers a natural way to stay active, engaging in a range of movements. From bending and reaching to lifting and walking, these various activities can help seniors improve their strength, balance, and flexibility. Whether it’s planting a vegetable garden in a raised bed or potting annual flowers on the back patio, seniors can enjoy the benefits of nature while also adding more movement to their day. Stroll around local nurseries for inspiration at places like Cross Creek Nursery and Landscaping or Meadow Farms. Purchase a raised garden bed at your local hardware store, such as The Home Depot in Midlothian. To learn more about gardening, reach out to the Midlothian Garden Club. 

Take Up Yoga 

Most older adults recognize the importance of cardio and strength training exercises, but few are aware of the many benefits of yoga and stretching. The practice of yoga can help seniors with balance, flexibility, and coordination. Holding yoga poses also can build muscle strength and improve muscle tone. This gentle form of exercise can be practiced early in the morning or later in the evening, making it easy for older adults to incorporate more movement into their day. Healthy Life Yoga offers a variety of yoga classes that are perfect for older adults. If you prefer to practice yoga at home, check out an instructional yoga DVD from the Midlothian Public Library.

Join a Community Fitness Class 

A great way for seniors to add more intentional movement to their day is by joining a community fitness class. Group classes are not only fun but also provide accountability, especially when shared with a friend. Most fitness classes meet weekly, making them a convenient option for seniors who have a busy schedule. Group fitness classes also provide social opportunities and can be a great place to help seniors build their social circle. Older adults can sign up for land-based and water-based fitness classes at places like the YMCA of Greater Richmond or SwimRVA. 

Visiting Angels Midlothian understands the importance of movement in the senior population. We’re here to help seniors stay active and independent in the comfort of their own homes. Our compassionate caregivers can assist you in a variety of ways as you look to add more movement to your day. From providing transportation to group fitness classes to exploring a local trail alongside you or helping you with outdoor gardening, our home care services can be tailored to exactly what you need. Beyond helping you stay active, our caregivers can also assist you around your home, including light housekeeping, meal preparation, and companionship. Contact our office today by calling 804-423-6500 to learn more about our personalized care plans that include support for physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.