Community
25 October, 2024
Stay active, stay healthy
STAYING active as you get older is not only important for physical health but also for good mental health.
Being active as we age helps to reduce the risk of many diseases, including some cancers, while also helping to maintain a healthy weight.
As we age it’s important to try to do some form of physical activity every day – whether that’s going for a brisk (or leisurely walk) or simply spending some time outdoors in the garden.
If you have health problems, make sure you consult your doctor or other health professional before starting any exercise program.
Find an activity that best suits you.
This could be swimming in a warm pool, participating in gentle water activities or even trying some weight bearing and strength activities.
Even a slight increase in daily physical activity can help improve your overall health and wellbeing.
This can help reduce symptoms such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and a range of joint and bone problems.
Being active can also strengthen muscles and agility and, in turn, reduce your risk of falls and injury.
Exercise will give you more energy, improve your sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration and improve your mental health.
For people over the age of 65, it is recommended you do at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most, if not all, days of the week.
If you find 30 minutes too difficult, begin with just 10 minutes twice a day and increase this to 15 minutes after the first two weeks.
Try to incorporate a range of activities into your week and reduce the amount of time spent sitting.
Moderate fitness activities can include brisk walking, aerobics or water aerobics, cycling, yard work, tennis and even household chores such as mopping and dusting.
Some activities that will help improve your mobility and flexibility include bowls, yoga and dancing – and all can be enjoyed surrounded by friends and family.
Building physical activity into your everyday life doesn’t have to be difficult, time consuming or tedious.
You can even fit some exercises in while waiting for the kettle to boil or while watching your favourite TV program.
Why not speak with some friends and arrange times throughout the week to meet and enjoy some physical activities together – make exercise fun.
