At Home Exercises for Seniors to Improve Balance
As we age, our sense of balance and coordination declines leading to billions of dollars in medical bills each year to treat slip and fall accidents in seniors. Weakened bones, joints and muscles combine with these balance issues to create a far larger problem as injuries are much more severe from these accidents than they would be in a young, healthy individual. This natural decline of physical functions is made worse by inactivity, a common problem for many aging persons.
Getting into a workout routine can often seem overwhelming and intimidating because a gym might not be accessible, may be expensive, and presents the problem of needing transportation. Keeping up the routine can also be very difficult once started and a gym workout may simply be too strenuous for some.
However, studies have shown that seniors can get the benefits of strength training right at home with the Life Integrated Functional Exercise Program (LiFE) which incorporates exercise right into regular daily activities. These exercise can also help immune health, bone density, cardio function and gastrointestinal function along with balance to help prevent falls. These exercises are don’t require special equipment and the study showed that more seniors were able to stick with this program versus another form of separate exercise. Some easy to incorporate exercises include:
- Incorporate a deep knee bend when lifting things or bending to load the dishwasher.
- Carry groceries and other items yourself whenever possible. Getting help with such things is nice, but neglecting your muscles will leave you unable to lift things when you really need to.
- Take the stairs whenever you are able to. Going slowly up stairs is still better than not taking them at all.
- If you take the bus try getting off one stop early and walking the rest of the way.
- Park your car further from the store when possible. During a nice sunny day this can be a far greater benefit than you can imagine.
- Walk whenever possible to a friend or neighbor’s home, to the mailbox, and try to schedule a short walk before or after a meal to help with metabolism.
Seniors who are struggling to incorporate exercise can often benefit from in home help. Santa Clarita Comfort Keepers’ specially trained caregivers will work with seniors to create and guide an activity routine that will benefit them physically and mentally. Visit the Santa Clarita site today to find out how an elderly loved one can lead a healthier, more rewarding life with in home car.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
