In-Home Exercises That Can Hold Older Adults In Good Stead

As harsh as it may sound, but Covid is far from over. In fact, there is a surge. But it’s no excuse for spending hours on end on the couch, especially for older adults, since the pandemic can affect them beyond the conventional contracting of the virus. It is imperative seniors exercise to strengthen their immunity, which is the need of the hour given the Covid surge. A strong immunity will translate to a significantly lower risk of complications from the virus. There’s also no denying that finding opportunities to move and exercise has become a challenge in these dark hours in view of limited access to exercise classes, gyms and an overall decline in motivation to stay active.

This blog aims to discuss some in-house exercises that will hold older adults- those still active or have limited mobility- in good stead. Get moving with these exercises to stay on top of your health game.

Some in-home exercises by assisted living Anthem facilities for the emotional and physical welfare of seniors that they can easily do from the comfort of their own homes:

Cardiovascular (aerobic) Exercise- These exercises are mainly for the heart health. It is wise seniors opt for low-intensity exercises, such as walking, swimming, riding a stationary bike, since heart rate decreases while exercising with increasing age. These activities mentioned above will only slightly increase the heart rate and are ideal for those with a range of medical conditions that make it best to say clear of exertion. Seniors can also reap benefits from activities like gardening or carrying out household chores that require a certain amount of physical exertion. More moderate-intensity cardio exercises like cycling are generally advised for healthy seniors.

Strength Training- Twice a week of strength training is what doctors recommend for seniors, which can be instrumental in strengthening muscles and helping in easily perform the basic activities of daily living, such as climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, etc.

Elastic bands, weights, or a person’s body weight- all can provide resistance that can prevent falls and help in muscle mass retention. Here are a few equipment-free, at-home exercises- wall push-ups, chair squats, single foot stand (exercise for balance), etc.

Exercises for Flexibility- Flexibility is at the center of overall well-being of seniors since they are more susceptible to stiff joints and tight muscles, which can come in the way of doing things that one could do with ease earlier like reaching for something high up, etc. This is where improving one’s flexibility comes into the picture, which can help maintain good posture and enable someone to move more freely and easily.

Seniors can carry out simple stretches (side, shoulder, triceps, hamstring, calf, knee and chest stretches). You can look up online videos or train under a professional for the same.

To book a suite at Anthem Senior Living, call us at 602.909.9550. We offer a range of services for those with limited mobility and older adults dealing with dementia by helping with activities of daily living, personal assistance, specialized memory care, companionship, and more.