Seniors who remain active can prevent age-related health issues and increase their ability to perform daily activities. Exercising can boost the mental, emotional, and physical health of aging adults on a long-term basis. Here are some of the reasons exercise is important in the golden years.
1. Reduces the Risk of Diabetes
A large percentage of seniors develop diabetes, and there’s no cure for this disease. However, diabetes can be prevented. Exercise is a crucial way to minimize the risk of developing diabetes in the senior years. When your elderly loved one exercises, he or she can lose weight and maintain healthy blood sugar levels, which could reduce the risk of diabetes.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional homecare. Tucson families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
2. Keeps the Heart Healthy
One of the primary causes of deaths for seniors is heart disease. By exercising on a regular basis, your loved one can keep his or her blood pressure low, which can prevent strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular issues.
3. Alleviates Anxiety
Depression is common among aging adults due to inactivity, isolation, and the loss of spouses or close friends. When seniors exercise, their bodies produce more endorphins, which are natural stress killers. Exercising regularly can also lead to a better quality of sleep, which could alleviate anxiety and enhance your loved one’s mood.
4. Prevents Memory Loss
The hormones that protect and repair brain cells may decrease with age. A reduced flow of blood to the brain is also common among seniors, and it can impair the memory and negatively affect cognitive skills. However, exercise is a good way to keep the brain active and stimulated, which could reduce the risk of memory loss and cognitive decline.
Severe cognitive decline may be a sign your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Tucson Home Care Assistance provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families can depend on. Our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method was designed to help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives.
5. Promotes Bone Health
Aging can cause the body to reabsorb phosphate and calcium from the bones instead of keeping the minerals in the bones, which could lead to weakened muscles and an increased risk of balance and flexibility issues. Exercising is a great way to build bone density and mass, which could lead to stronger muscles and reduce the risk of joint pain and stiffness.
6. Boosts the Immune System
The more physical activity your loved one does, the more bacteria he or she can flush out of the lungs and airways. Exercising can cause positive changes to the white blood cells in the body, making it easier to fight off diseases. Getting regular exercise can also enhance the function of T cells in the body, which could prevent the immune system from weakening.
7. Increases Longevity
Exercise provides seniors with many psychological and physical benefits. Seniors may feel encouraged, motivated, and eager to meet tomorrow’s challenges after exercising. When aging adults exercise, they can boost their mood, enhance their quality of life, and increase their longevity.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To schedule a no-obligation consultation, give us a call today at (520) 276-6555.