Some of the Best Indoor Exercises for Seniors
Physical activity is vital at any age, but it’s especially important to keep in mind as we grow older. In fact, studies show that physical activity in older age can help prevent cardiovascular disease, strokes, diabetes and some forms of cancer, as well as, delay the onset of dementia and improve mental health and overall quality of life.
While getting outside for exercise is preferable, the winter season can bring its own unique challenges to getting outdoors. So, here are a few indoor exercises for seniors that can help you stay active in the colder months.
Senior Exercises at Home
Walking. Regular walks help to strengthen bones and muscles, maintain weight and improve coordination. While taking a walk outdoors allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature, you can just as easily walk indoors. Looking for a little bit of extra walking time? Try walking in place while watching your favorite T.V. show or movie – this is just one simple way to stay active during your daily routine.
Yoga. You can practice yoga wherever is most comfortable for you – all you need is a towel or a mat. This is an effective way to stay active at any age and receive benefits like increased balance, a boosted mood and increased strength. Plus, this low-impact exercise is easy on your joints. If you’re not sure where to start or are looking for ways to expand your practice, YouTube offers plenty of free yoga classes online that are designed for all skill levels.
Balance exercises. You’re able to do a majority of balance exercises from the comfort of your own home. From yoga poses designed for balance to simply standing on your foot, balance exercises help you find your center of gravity and decrease your risk of falls. One exercise is a chair leg raise: sit in a chair with your spine straight and both feet directly under your knees. Slowly straighten your right leg, holding it in the air for a few seconds, and then lower it back down. Repeat with your left leg. Perform as many sets as you feel comfortable doing, with about 10-20 repetitions each set.
Household chores. Not only are you gaining a clean house while doing chores, but you’re actually getting in a workout too! Pushing and pulling the vacuum, wiping down counters and tables and carrying your laundry basket all encourage your body to move and stay active. You’re not only promoting a comfortable living space, but you’re also promoting physical health.
Dancing. Turn on your favorite song and grab a partner or have your own personal dance party. Whatever your preference may be, dancing is a great aerobic exercise that stretches muscles and increases flexibility while encouraging an elevated heart rate. Plus, who doesn’t love getting up and moving to the music?
Learn More About Staying Active at Home at Springpoint Communities
At Springpoint, we incorporate our award-winning LivWell program into every aspect of resident health at each of our eight Life Plan communities. LivWell is much more than just an activity room on campus —it focuses on each of the seven points of wellness: intellectual, emotional, social, environmental, spiritual, vocational and physical health. Each Springpoint Life Plan community provides a multitude of ways to stay physically healthy, from swimming laps in the indoor heated pools to group exercise classes such as armchair yoga or tai chi. Each community offers a wellness and state-of-the-art fitness center at your disposal.
Contact us today see how you can live a healthy, vibrant life at a Springpoint community.
