Seventy-four-year-old fitness influencer Joan MacDonald was not always in great shape. It was scary news from her physician that set her on the course towards health and fitness. At seventy years old, she took medication for high blood pressure, acid reflux, and high cholesterol. She had two options: increase her medications OR change her habits. She chose the latter. Four years after that fateful appointment, she is in the best shape of her life.
You may have come to believe that you are too old or too out of shape to make fitness a reality for you. We are here to say this is not true. While you may not become a fitness guru or achieve international fame for your lifestyle transition, it is never too late to begin a fitness regimen. For seniors, exercise can assist with mobility, balance, and strength. It can also reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, boost mood, reduce depression and anxiety, and keep you livening independently for longer.
The benefits of exercise are numerous, especially for the elderly population. The great news is that you do not have to spend hours in the gym doing repetitive cardio you do not like or lifting heavy weights to reap the rewards. The best exercise program is the one that you will commit to and enjoy. The great news is that you have so many choices these days. Whatever your skill and ability levels are, you can find a regimen that meets your needs.
Silver Sneakers, a popular fitness program for seniors, says the first thing you need to consider is your goal. What do you want to accomplish? Do you need to lose weight? Gain strength? Reduce your need for medications and address chronic conditions? When you know where you want to go, you can better decide where to start.
Once you have your goals in mind, be sure to check with your physician and get clearance. It is always best to be safe when it comes to exercise. With the all-clear in hand, you are ready to get started. If you have limitations, your physician will let you know what forms of exercise are best for you. If not, you are free to choose whatever works for you.
Here are some great options:
- Swimming
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Bodyweight training
- Strength training
- Walking
- Stationary bike
- Elliptical Machine
- Jogging (if you are okay with the impact)
- Dancing
When it comes to exercise, the sky is the limit. Did you know that at Victoria Landing, Melbourne’s premier waterfront assisted living and memory care facility, your health, and wellness is the priority? Physical health is incredibly important, and we nurture this aspect of wellness by providing activities such as aqua fitness, swimming, dancing, flexibility and stretching, and more. Our mission is to provide a perfect space for you to age in place. Please contact our office today.
