Your senior loved one needs to stay active and spend time with others. A senior fitness program can be a nice addition to their current routine and daily activities. However, before enrolling them in a class or program, check with their doctor to ensure it's okay.
What Is a Senior Fitness Program?
Elderly fitness programs are tailored specifically to meet the needs of individuals aged 65 and over. Programs may involve physical and mental exercises to improve your senior loved one's quality of life.
Types of Senior Fitness Programs
Exercise programs can include the following activities:
- Resistance training helps to build strength slowly with the help of light weights or elastic bands.
- Cardio exercises involve exercises such as walking or biking. It increases breathing and heart rate for an extended period.
- Yoga focuses on postures that combine body movement with breathing techniques. It improves physical health, posture, and flexibility. Yoga exercises also help reduce stress levels.
- Pilates integrates strengthening exercises with balance poses while improving coordination. It is known to boost energy while assisting in stretching tight muscles.
- Tai Chi combines slow-paced graceful movements coordinated with specific deep breaths. It helps regulate inner balance throughout the whole body.
Any of these fitness programs can provide outstanding benefits for your senior loved one.
Benefits of Senior Fitness Programs
Regular exercise has numerous benefits for your seniors. Below are some of the key ways that fitness programs may positively help them:
Improved Strength and Balance
These programs help seniors build strength and maintain muscular balance. This improves movement for your senior parent, allowing them to do everyday tasks with more ease. It can also help reduce the risk of falls.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Regular exercise can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Fitness programs for seniors may specifically focus on helping your senior loved one build physical endurance. This is especially important if they suffer from any cardiovascular health conditions.
Weight Loss or Maintenance
Exercise can help your senior loved one maintain a healthy weight. Regular physical activity combined with good nutrition is key to achieving the best results.
Reduction of Stress
Fitness programs can help reduce stress. It is particularly beneficial among those who suffer from cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer's and dementia. Moving around and engaging in fitness activities encourages good mental health for your senior loved one.
Improved Cognitive and Mental Health
Exercise can help sharpen cognitive skills, improving mental alertness, and memory. Physical exercise also stimulates endorphins in the brain which aids in alleviating stress and depression.
Tips for Finding Local Fitness Classes
Fitness classes for seniors can be found online or in community centers or retirement communities. Speaking with your senior loved one's healthcare professional is the best way to make sure you find the right fit when looking for fitness programs and activities.
Senior Helpers Spokane Cares About the Well-Being of Your Senior Loved One
Elderly fitness programs can be extremely beneficial for your senior loved one who wants to maintain their health and well-being. Fitness programs are tailored specifically to meet the needs of seniors in Spokane, Coeur D'Alene, Post Falls, Sandpoint, Rathdrum, Hayden, and Moscow. Senior Helpers Spokane can provide additional care for your senior parent to improve their well-being, such as healthy meal prep and companionship. Contact us today to learn more!