I know that we have covered this topic over, and over again. However, no matter where I search for information about senior citizen fitness, the list below is repeated. Below are just a few benefits :)…
Regular exercise improves the following:
- Immune Function. A healthy, strong body fights off infection and sickness more easily and more quickly. Rather than sapping energy reserves entirely, recovery from an illness will take less of a toll on the body if the person exercises regularly.
- Cardio-Respiratory and Cardiovascular Function. Frequent physical activity lowers the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. If the elderly person has hypertension, exercise will help lower their blood pressure.
- Bone Density and Risk of Osteoporosis. Exercise protects against loss in bone mass. Better bone density will reduce the risk of osteoporosis, lower the risk of falling and prevent broken bones. Post-menopausal women can lose as much as 2 percent bone mass each year, and men also lose bone mass as they age. Research done at Tufts University shows that strength training can dramatically reduce this loss, help restore bones, and contribute to better balance and less fractures. Source: https://www.agingcare.com/Articles/Exercise-benefits-for-the-Elderly-95383.htm
As we age, memory loss is quite frustrating. For example, recalling names, details of incidents we just experienced, or giving directions to someone. In addition to remembering our next appointment without checking the calendar to make sure.
The word about knee osteoarthritis (OA) and exercise is that the more you exercise the better you will feel! I know it’s hard to believe when you’re feeling that pain in your knees, or hands, or back – name it, I’ve experienced it. I continue to look for new ways to fight back. Here is what some Arthritis sufferers have had to say about measures/precautions that helped them fight back. I found these at: 
I don’t know about you, but I often find myself at difficulties when I am trying to recall everything my doctor talks to me about during a visit. Sometimes, I have more than one doctor’s appointment in one day. How about you? Do you recall everything, or would it be helpful if you could record your doctor visits?
Adjusting to the signs of aging is not intuitive. In recent years, I have learned to read, listen to other seniors, and constantly pay attention to the signs my body gives me.
I’m not one to make light of the fact that for some seniors aging is a difficult challenge. Loss of the ability to function the way we could when we were younger; loss of friends and companions; sickness. All of these things add to enormous stress, and sometimes despondent feelings. But what if thinking positively could help us out? Should we at least try to find a way to cultivate this habit?
I must admit that I am guilty of not taking my medications sometimes. It’s not intentional really, but it does happen. It could seem like a simple thing missing, or not taking your meds. Right? It turns out that it could actually be life threatening ! Yes!
I must admit, the aging process is a little intimidating. Sometimes, when you least expect it, a body part, that was ok in the morning, all of a sudden is hurting later on that same day. It’s that ‘wake-up call’, which then becomes a part of your daily life (chronic pain, osetoarthritis, knee pains and the like).
livingsenior.me 