Staying active is vital to overall well-being — especially for seniors. As you age, maintaining your balance may become challenging, flexibility is harder to maintain, and you are more susceptible to health issues in general. Fortunately, maintaining an active lifestyle offers a wealth of benefits that can help offset some of these issues.
Enhance your retirement by remaining active every day. Just a little activity can enhance your quality of life and improve your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Keep reading to learn more.
Daily activity, such as walking or yoga, can improve your physical health in numerous ways, including:
The good news is that you do not have to spend hours a day exercising. Just 20-30 minutes of moderate activity a few days per week offers significant benefits.
Staying active also promotes mental health. First, keeping your mind and body active improves your cognitive functioning. This, in turn, can reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive decline.
Secondly, keeping active can help fight off depression. Participating in daily activities gives your body and mind a chance to rejuvenate. Exercise also releases endorphins, which are known to boost one’s mood. These factors can reduce the risk of anxiety, stress and other conditions that lead to depression.
Finally, maintaining an active lifestyle can improve your eating and sleeping habits. For instance, staying active can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. This can improve your memory and concentration, promote better digestive health and strengthen your heart.
Social isolation is a major concern for seniors, especially if they start having mobility, vision or other health-related issues. Whether in Assisted Living or Independent Living, you can participate in daily resident engagement opportunities despite any limitations. This encourages you to get involved and meet with other community residents. Staying active prevents loneliness associated with isolation while promoting independence, boosting confidence and improving your quality of life.
While staying active in retirement is crucial, you also don’t want to do too much too soon or set unrealistic goals. Instead, start slowly. You do not have to participate in every activity available. Gradually build yourself up to being active for at least 20 or 30 minutes, 3 to 5 days per week.
Think about the activities or hobbies you enjoy, such as gardening, cooking or painting. This is a good place to begin. As you start to expand your options, try to keep a good mix. The greater the variety in the type of activities you participate in, the less likely you are to become bored. Also, don’t minimize the benefit of any activity. Even a weekly shopping trip to your favorite store can help you get plenty of steps.
It is also important to listen to your body. It will let you know if you are overdoing it. Take frequent breaks if necessary. You should not be out of breath or have any sudden aches or pains. You also want to stay hydrated. Invest in a sturdy water bottle that is easy to carry and clean.
One final note. If you plan to start a new exercise program, be sure to talk to your doctor first. Your physician can help you determine what fitness programs are best for you.
At Hermitage Richmond, we go to great lengths to ensure seniors stay active in retirement. Our fitness center is the perfect place to exercise or join a fitness class. You can also make use of our deluxe art studio or on-site amenities, including raised garden beds, a library and a chapel. Additionally, we offer a calendar packed full of things to do, such as games, music, lifelong learning classes, parties and scheduled outings. You also have access to various dining options, including customized meals.
With so many options, you will never have a problem staying active at Hermitage Richmond. Learn more about everything we have to offer. Schedule a showing today by contacting Hermitage Richmond at 804 474 1812.
