How Does Exercise Benefit Aging Adults?

Living a sedentary lifestyle can make an aging adult more susceptible to metabolic disorders and other diseases related to physical inactivity. Conversely, regular exercise can offer elderly people amazing benefits, from enjoying better balance to climbing stairs more easily. The following list features more ways aging adults can benefit from exercising regularly.

Increases Energy

Seniors who get winded from running errands or doing simple chores can change this by exercising, which can boost their endurance and muscle strength. When seniors exercise, more nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the body’s various tissues, which helps the cardiovascular system perform more efficiently. When the lungs and heart are strong, seniors have extra energy to do their daily tasks. 

Combats Diseases & Illnesses

Aging adults who incorporate exercise into their daily lives tend to have greater bone density, better digestive function, and stronger immune systems. Exercising also lowers the risk of obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and certain types of cancer.  Des Moines home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

Reduces the Risk of Dementia

Dementia affects many aging adults. Since a variety of mental ailments are categorized as dementia, there’s a need to understand how to stave off this condition. Getting regular exercise is one preventive strategy that can ward off cognitive decline in seniors. A study published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings as well as on the website of the National Center for Biotechnology Information states that exercise, especially aerobic exercise, can reduce cognitive impairment and dementia risk. It also suggests every aging adult should exercise to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and prevent mental disability later in life.  If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of home care service. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.

Controls Weight

Getting regular exercise can help seniors maintain a healthy weight. When they take part in physical activities, they burn calories. Seniors don’t have to exercise excessively to achieve their weight goals. They can become more active throughout the day by ramping up their household chores and taking the stairs more frequently. Consistency is what’s most important. 

Boosts Mood

A leisurely 30-minute walk can give a senior an emotional lift by stimulating the release of a variety of chemicals that leave him or her feeling more relaxed and joyful. Regular physical activity such as daily walks can also boost self-esteem and confidence.

Promotes Socialization

Many seniors find it quite enjoyable to do physical activities such as dancing or hiking with friends or family members. Exercising can help seniors unwind and boost their mental state while connecting with their loved ones in exciting and happy social settings, which can enhance their overall wellbeing. 

Prevents Heart Disease

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states approximately one in every four deaths is associated with heart disease. Seniors can use exercise to lower their chances of heart disease by maintaining healthy blood glucose and blood pressure levels and lowering their LDL cholesterol. Exercising helps older adults remain active, but some seniors require assistance to maintain a healthy lifestyle. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Des Moines seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers. Call one of our friendly Care Managers at (515) 264-2438 to schedule a free in-home consultation.