Exercise & Aging: Four Reasons Why Seniors Need to Keep Moving
Although nutrition plays a crucial role in healthy aging, pursuing regular physical activity is one of the most important things an older adult can do for their health. Research continues to show that a sedentary lifestyle is detrimental to an older adult’s health and well-being.
Yet, despite the evidence, most seniors continue to live an idle lifestyle. Pain, chronic health conditions, and other age-related factors make exercise less appealing. It’s easier to sit and read or watch television than it is for an older adult to move their aging body.
If you’re an older adult who has fallen into a sedentary lifestyle, talk with your doctor about how to start exercising once again. Check out this Movement Factsheet for Older Adults for specific activity recommendations for older adults. Then, stay motivated with the following four reasons why seniors need to keep moving.
Movement Increases Longevity
Want to live a longer life? Include movement in your daily routine. One of the major risks of a sedentary lifestyle is obesity. Obesity is a risk factor for many chronic health conditions that seniors can experience as they age. The condition can also cause premature death. One study found that the more physically active we are, the less biological aging takes place in our bodies. Higher levels of physical activity seem to be the most beneficial in regards to adding years to an older adult’s life. However, regular, moderate activity levels can also keep older adults young.
Movement Decreases Risk of Chronic Health Conditions
In addition to increasing longevity, regular physical activity decreases the risk of certain chronic health conditions among older adults. Research shows that lack of exercise is the primary cause of most major chronic health conditions. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that consistent activity lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain forms of cancer. Exercise is an important component of maintaining a healthy body. It boosts the immune system, helping older adults to fight against chronic health conditions.
Movement Helps Prevent Falls
Falls are a serious health threat for older adults. According to the CDC, one fall can reduce an older adult’s ability to live independently. Fortunately, regular physical activity can help seniors prevent their risk of falling. Due to age, older adults experience less agility and flexibility than their younger counterparts. Exercise helps older adults regain and maintain some flexibility and coordination that is often lost through inactivity.
Movement Improves Quality of Life
Regular physical activity can also improve an older adult’s quality of life. According to one study, older adults who exercised showed higher quality of life scores than non-exercisers. Seniors who exercise improve not just their physical health, but their mental health as well. Exercise releases endorphins, or those feel-good hormones that act as a stress reliever and leave you feeling happy. These endorphins are critical for reducing anxiety and depression, as well as improving mood in general.
It’s never too late for older adults to start engaging in regular, physical activity. If you need help getting started, Visiting Angels of Santa Clarita is here for you. We make aging in place possible. With our at home care services, seniors receive the one-on-one support they need to remain independent and live safely at home. We can accommodate a wide range of care needs, when you need it most. Our compassionate caregivers can even assist with going for walks and engaging in your favorite activities. To learn more, please contact us today by calling 661-263-2273.