Did you know that a few minutes of moderate daily exercise for seniors can greatly improve their lives?

Physical activity has been linked to disease prevention, improved cognitive functionality, better sleep, increased cardiovascular health, and muscle strength, which helps to maintain #balance in the body. #Balance is especially important for #seniors, as they are at a higher risk of falls.

As we progress in age, we begin to lose muscle mass. By the fourth decade, adults can expect to lose up to 3 to 5 percent of muscle mass with each decade. Strong muscles not only contribute to our balance but also to bone strength. As you lose muscle strength, mobility and balance are compromised. Think of that in terms of functionality in daily living: Perhaps you can no longer reach overhead for an item on the top shelf; Walking downstairs is now an ordeal and a high risk for injury; You are cooking and drop something, but have difficulty bending down to pick it up.

Benefits of Exercise

·       Improved stability and balance – Falls are one of the number one causes of injuries to seniors. Balance training improves overall balance and reaches #flexibility and body stability. It improves confidence in the ability to go about everyday duties.

·       Increased cognitive function – Exercise increases oxygenated blood flow for better circulation, boosts moods, improves #clarity in thinking, and reduces stress and anxiety.

·       Stronger muscles and bones – Through strength training, you build muscle mass and strength, increase bone strength, improve coordination and mobility.

·       Decrease the risk of chronic illnesses – Regular exercise can delay or prevent the onset of chronic diseases like #heartdisease, #osteoporosis, #diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, or stroke, according to the National Institute of Aging.

·      Improved quality of life – Exercise has been shown to improve #physicalhealth, as well as psychological health. Seniors will #movebetter #feelbetter and #performbetter and will have lower risks for diseases.

 Exercises that are recommended for seniors are Yoga, walking, swimming, #balance training, #strengthtraining, #stretching, or any activity that you enjoy.

If you are new to exercise or have not exercised in a long time, #physicaltherapy is a great place to start. It meets you where you are and gets you moving again with a personalized program. If you are not sure where to start or how to start, give us a call to schedule a consultation and first appointment. Call us at 702.840.1222 or click→ here to schedule a free 15-minute complimentary telephone consultation.

Sources: National Institute of Aging, American Heart Association, Harvard Medical School Health Publishing