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Exercise for Our Elderly Loved Ones

Good morning:  I wanted to open a discussion on the importance of exercise and movement for our elderly loved ones.  Exercise is a cornerstone of healthy aging.  It is a crucial aspect for us caregivers to try to maintain a regimen of some type of physical movement for their mental, physical, and emotional well-being.  For the elderly, staying active can make a significant difference in maintaining independence and quality of life. Regular physical activity, at some level,  helps to manage weight, strengthen muscles, and improve balance, which can reduce the risk of falls—a common concern among older adults. Moreover, exercise has been shown to boost mood and cognitive function, combating the effects of conditions like depression and dementia. It's not about high-intensity workouts; even gentle, regular activities like walking, swimming, or tai chi can have profound benefits - low-impact exercises can be as beneficial as higher-impact movements.

The CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/downloads/growing_stronger.pdf) recommends strength training for older folks which includes walking, stretching, squats, and variety of other low-impact exercises.  Many of these can be done at home with little or no equipment.

Depending on their condition and limitations, there are many different types of exercise that they can do even while sitting.  My Mom was active most of her life with teaching and raising kids but when dementia stopped her from walking, we got her an elliptical for her to use whenever she was watching TV.  Hers was a manual one that she could regulate to her personal speed and tension.  There are programmable ellipticals for those not able to adjust for themselves.  These handy items keep circulation moving and are easy on the joints.  They are portable and easily moved from room to room.   (You may be able to rent equipment rather than buying each piece as they can get expensive depending on what you are looking for.  Check in your area)

Since my Dad was not much of a walker, he used resistance bands and very light weights for exercise.  He did more stretching and movement programs.  I got him a few exercise videos to show him the correct way to do the exercises so he didn't do too much, too fast.

If your loved one is is a community setting, check on the exercise routines they offer for groups.  Many seniors favor exercising if they can share the experience and see that it can help physically and emotionally.

Encouraging our elders to incorporate exercise into their daily routine is a step towards ensuring they enjoy their golden years to the fullest. Remember, it's never too late to start, and the benefits are truly ageless.

***Always consult with your elderly loved one's physician to ensure a safe and healthy exercise routine.  Some exercises may not be suitable for everyone, despite the degree of impact.

What are some exercises you have your elderly loved ones do?   Have you seen an improvement in physical and emotional well-being?

Fidelity has reacted to this post.
Fidelity

Good morning,

 

Thank you for starting such an important discussion! The role of exercise in promoting the well-being of our elderly loved ones cannot be overstated. I can relate closely to your experiences, especially considering the journey I've been on with my grandmother.

 

After her stroke, it became crucial to keep her as active as possible to aid in her recovery and maintain her mobility. We started with simple seated exercises, which were initially challenging due to her limited mobility, but over time, she grew stronger. With the help of her physical therapist, we introduced light resistance band workouts that she could do from her chair. These not only helped improve her muscle tone but also her mood significantly.

 

I've noticed a remarkable improvement in her overall spirits and physical strength. The exercises have become a part of her daily routine, and she looks forward to them. It's a small daily commitment that has made a big difference.

 

I’d love to hear more about the types of exercises others have found effective for their elderly loved ones. Are there any particular routines or equipment that have worked well? It’s always great to learn from each other's experiences and potentially introduce new activities that could benefit our loved ones.

 

Looking forward to hearing your stories!

 

Best, Fidelity