When it comes to staying healthy in one’s senior years, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. Exercise keeps the body young and strong, and it can even improve mood and mental health. Unfortunately, appropriate exercise routines for seniors are difficult to find. As people age, their bodies change, lose power and experience diminished flexibility, making exercises that younger people perform less than ideal, and in some cases dangerous.
Thankfully, one of the best exercises a person can perform is also one of the least impactful on the body. Walking is something that almost everyone does on a daily basis, but it’s also one of the most powerful forms of exercise, especially for seniors. If you’re concerned about a senior in your life who isn’t getting the exercise they need to stay healthy and fit, take a look at these five benefits of walking!
#1 — Walking Reduces the Risk of Contracting and Suffering From Numerous Diseases
Going for a walk every day has been shown to help boost immune system health, which is particularly important for older individuals. Diseases such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, heart disease and even some forms of cancer can be held at bay by engaging in a regular walking routine.
#2 — Walking Increases Bone Strength
Strong bones are incredibly important for good senior health. Bones provide the structure for our bodies, and the stronger they are, the less likely they are to be stressed or broken in the event of a fall or other incident.
#3 — Walking Reduces Stress and Boosts Mental Health
One of the best ways to get rid of stress in the mind is to work the body, and walking provides the easiest, most convenient way for seniors to engage in beneficial body movement. When stress levels are low, risks associated with injuries and disease are reduced considerably.
#4 — Walking Helps Seniors Maintain a Healthy Weight
Keeping off those extra pounds is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for aging individuals. Walking helps seniors maintain a healthy metabolism and weight, but it can also provide an appetite boost for those who may be in need of gaining a few pounds.
#5 — Walking Improves Balance
When falls can be so deadly, it’s critical to be able to maintain a sense of equilibrium and balance. Walking keeps the body well balanced, and it can help seniors prevent falls and other potentially deadly incidents.
Learn More!
Are you interested in learning more about what a regular walking routine can do to benefit seniors? Always Best Care has the information you need! Give us a call today at 1 (855) 470-CARE (2273) and learn how you can receive a FREE consultation to discuss the care of a senior loved one in your life.
