Keeping Active at Home

One challenge posing seniors is getting enough physical activity and exercise. In today’s world of quarantines and lockdowns, that difficulty is only compounded. Fortunately, with some simple strategies and solutions, one can find a plethora of activities to engage in at home that will provide both fun and exercise.

Doctors recommend getting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. Exercise not only has physical benefits, but it helps keep the mind sharp as well, making it invaluable for seniors. Taking a half hour each day to walk around the neighborhood is a great way to safely satisfy that goal. Being outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine carries a much lower risk of any viral transmission, as well as providing the many benefits of sunlight exposure.

Another hobby that provides both recreational enjoyment and activity is gardening. Gardening can be done in a number of different ways and strategies, from an entire backyard planting, a raised planter bed outside, or a small herb garden indoors on a windowsill. A garden also provides the tangible benefits of flowers and vegetables for enjoyment.

Yoga or Tai chi have long been providing benefits to seniors. The low-impact, slow and deliberate moves are perfect for aging bodies, and the small space they require make them perfect for doing at home. And in our modern era, there’s no need to attend a class with an instructor. There are countless instructional DVDs, channels, or online videos one can follow along with in front of the TV.