Health Benefits of Doing Exercise In Seniors
Exercise and a healthy nutrition are essential parts of a healthy lifestyle throughout one’s life. As we age, our requirements too are ever changing.
Seniors are referred to as the ‘older adult’ In a particular population. Once you reach the age of 65, you are already termed an old adult . With this age, you will be referred to as a senior citizen.
Research has also shown that as we age, our muscle mass begins to decrease. When we enter our forties, adults can lose 3-5% of muscle mass with each subsequent decade of life.
Considering the importance of muscles to the human body, it makes us mobile as well as independent. It is an essential contributor to our balance and bone strength; without it weakness sets in.
Hence, it is important for exercises to be part of our daily routine especially for the seniors. This will ensure that they are kept active always.
This article highlights the benefits of exercises to the senior citizens.
Main benefits of exercise for seniors
1 It improves healing and function
A healthy and strong body fights off infection and makes recovery from illness or injury easier.
Furthermore, regular exercise by seniors may decrease the time it takes for their wound to heal by 25%.
2 It increases balance and stability
Falls is one of the most common injury among seniors, and performing regular exercise can help prevent them.
Falling leads to injuries like broken hips or other bones. Exercise is a key component to improve functional reach and balance.
3 Regular exercise means more energy
Being active releases an outburst of energy and endorphins are released when exercise is carried out.
Any amount of exercise promotes the release of endorphins combat stress hormones and promote healthy sleep.
4 Improved quality of life and increased life expectancy
Research has shown that seniors who exercise improve their physical fitness and they experience psychological benefits as well.
Also, exercises can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve the mood in general.
The increased mobility that comes from regular, moderate exercise can help a senior maintain his or her independence.
5 Regular exercise improves brain function
A healthy body means a healthy mind. Seniors that do exercises on a regular basis have improved cognitive health.
6 Exercise helps to prevent and counteract diseases
In seniors, there is a common occurrence of diseases such as heart disease, depression, stroke and diabetes.
However, adopting a more active lifestyle can contribute to the prevention of these diseases.
Also, exercises reduce the unpleasant symptoms of these diseases. Most especially for those living with the disease already.
