As we age, exercise becomes more essential. It’s vital to find an exercise program that works for your aging loved ones. Exercises for the elderly include aerobics, resistance exercises, flexibility exercises, and more. Always check first with your loved one’s primary physician to receive recommendations and approval for an elderly exercise program.

Consider the following exercises for the elderly:

Aerobics. There are many aerobics options for seniors including water aerobics and dance cardio. If full-body movements aren’t an option, there are exercises that can be done while seated to help build cardio strength.

Resistance Exercises. Exercises with resistance weights, like elastic bands, can help build strength. The bands come in a variety of tensile strength levels. Even a day per week of strength training can help reduce the risk of injury.

Flexibility Exercises. Stretching is great for improving flexibility and freedom of movement. Taking a yoga class at a local senior or recreation center can be a great way to socialize while building flexibility.

Dementia Exercises. In the early stages of dementia, there are a variety of exercise options. The same exercise can be modified and continued as the stages progress. Repetition is often comforting to seniors with dementia. Activities such as walking and riding a stationary bike daily can be helpful for both the physical and mental state.

The following suggestions can ensure that he/she will look forward to the program:

• Engage in the exercise program with your loved one. It’s more fun to exercise with a buddy.
• Hire a trusted caregiver to engage in the elderly exercise program with your loved one.
• Turn on his/her favorite, upbeat music while exercising.
• Set aside dedicated time each day for exercise, and make sure to keep it a priority.
• Offer incentives or rewards for attaining milestones for motivation.

Comprehensive Home Care can recommend ideas to help your loved one increase activity levels. There’s nothing we love more than knowing the seniors in our care are healthy and enjoying life to the fullest! Contact us here or call us at 704-333-521to set up an elderly exercise program to improve life for your loved one!

Now that you have the information necessary to plan the best fitness routine. Check out Benefits of Laughter in Senior’s Health.