Though a Parkinson’s diagnosis can make seniors fearful of changes in their abilities, exercise can help them maintain a high quality of life. If your elderly loved one is living with this disease, here are some exercises he or she can do to combat the physical symptoms, brought to you by the Tucson Parkinson’s care experts at Home Care Assistance.
Swimming
If your loved one has Parkinson’s, swimming can help him or her work on coordination. The water is relaxing, and the buoyancy helps alleviate challenges with balance your loved one may be having. Since swimming is easy on the joints, this is the perfect exercise for your loved one to do if he or she experiences the joint stiffness that often accompanies Parkinson’s.
Yoga
This exercise can help increase your loved one’s mobility and wellbeing, but yoga can also help relieve symptoms specifically associated with Parkinson’s, such as tremors. If your loved one has a fear of falling, yoga may help alleviate the fear. Since yoga moves are precise, this exercise can increase your loved one’s range of motion and alertness, boost his or her flexibility and circulation, and help him or her perform everyday activities.
Walking
This is one of the easiest exercises for your loved one to do if he or she has Parkinson’s. Even though walking is a low-impact exercise, it helps increase mobility and endurance. Many seniors with Parkinson’s are unable to walk without assistance, which is why this form of exercise is essential to helping your loved one maintain his or her mobility.
Gardening
Working in a garden can help seniors with Parkinson’s increase their dexterity and build muscles. While your loved one is planting flowers, vegetables, and fruits, he or she will need to grip on various gardening tools and kneel down to plant the items, which can increase his or her motor skills.
If your loved one needs assistance with exercise, turn to Home Care Assistance in Tucson. Our caregivers are expertly trained in Parkinson’s care, and we also offer specialized dementia, stroke, and Alzheimer’s care. For more information on senior care Tucson families can trust, call one of our knowledgeable Care Managers at (520) 276-6555 to schedule a complimentary consultation.