The Importance of Exercise for Older Adults
Most older adults recognize that exercise is important to a healthy lifestyle. However, many continue to pursue a sedentary life. Pain, chronic health conditions, and other age-related factors can make exercise a challenge in older adulthood. For others, they may think they’re getting enough movement that qualifies as exercise, or they simply don’t know where to start.
With spring on the horizon, it’s the perfect season for seniors to prioritize exercise. Talk with your doctor before you begin, check out this Movement Factsheet for Older Adults, and stay motivated with the following reasons why exercise is important in older adulthood.
Movement Increases Longevity
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, exercise 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 flexibility and coordination 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 and improving mood in general.
Local Exercise Resources for Older Adults
- Explore one of the many natural areas right here in South Elgin.
- Join the Walking Book Club that meets at the Main Library in Elgin.
- Kane Senior Council provides health and wellness education for older adults, including age-appropriate exercise.
- South Elgin Parks and Recreation offers several fitness classes that may be appropriate for older adults.
- SilverSneakers is a free fitness program for older adults aged 65 and above who have select Medicare plans.
- The Golden Corrido Family YMCA partners with SilverSneakers and offers several exercise classes designed for older adults.
It’s never too late for older adults to start exercising. If you need help, Visiting Angels South Elgin is here for you. We make aging in place possible. Our elderly home care services give older adults 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 escort you on a walk around your neighborhood or transport you to an older adult exercise class. To learn more, please contact us today by calling 847-429-0100.