Think of your body as a machine. As a machine needs fuel, your body needs nutrients to move and function. As a machine needs to be turned on and used often, your body needs to get up and move on a regular basis to properly function. With a nutritious diet and exercise to improve your mobility and strength, your vitality will last longer, increasing life longevity.
Many older adults can reduce their risk of health issues and diseases simply by staying active. Below are exercises you can do that are easy on your joints and will improve your mobility.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a low-intensity form of kinetic meditation—a non-competitive Chinese martial art practiced for both defense training and health benefits. Studies show that Tai Chi decreases stress and anxiety and increases flexibility and balance. Tai Chi also provides the following mobility benefits:
- Increases agility
- Relieves joint pain
- Improves aerobic capacity and muscle strength
- Decreases likelihood of falling
Yoga
Yoga is similar to Tai Chi, as it's a low-intensity exercise that focuses on meditation. Aside from meditation, there is also a heavy emphasis on breathing exercises and assuming postures. While most areas have yoga studios, you can easily practice yoga in the comfort of your own home with the help of YouTube videos. Yoga can increase your mobility in the following ways:
- Increases flexibility and muscle strength
- Increases metabolism
- Improve respiration and vitality
- Improves balance (which helps prevent falls)
Swimming
Swimming can be as intense (or relaxing) as you’d like it to be. Swimming presents a low-risk for injury and is a low-impact exercise that's easy on your joints. Check out your local gym to see if it has a pool to participate in a water aerobics class, or swim on your own. We recommend water resistance exercises such as arm curls, leg swings and calf raises to strengthen your muscles. Other mobility benefits include:
- Reduces risk of osteoporosis, which can easily break bones
- Increases flexibility
- Increases muscle strength and tone
Walking
Walking is a low-intensity exercise that requires no equipment or specific location to practice because it can be done anywhere, at any time. The best part about this exercise is that it’s extremely cost-effective, as it’s free to do! Walking is a great way to enjoy some fresh air, and time to catch up with friends, reducing social isolation and depression.
Experts recommend wearing walking shoes specifically catered toward older adults. Learn more about recommended brand footwear and what to consider before heading outside for a nice, long walk.
Health benefits of walking include:
- Weight loss
- Lower blood pressure
- Better heart rate
- Improved memory
Stay Protected While Active
Unlike a cell phone, Medical Guardian’s medical alert systems are highly water-resistant wearable buttons, perfect to wear if there is an unexpected rain shower. Additionally, a cell phone will not always be nearby in an emergency, making it an unreliable option when it comes to ensuring your safety. With our devices, however, you can rest assured that you will always have access to help by wearing a discreet and lightweight button around your neck, wrist, or on a belt clip.
Our medical alert devices can also be used for more than just emergency situations including contacting a family member or loved one at the push of a button. The ease of use of our products with a single button press truly set our devices apart from your typical cell phone, especially in the case of an emergency.
Guest Blog Written By BestCompany.com
