Best Types of Exercises for Older Adults

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In order to stay as healthy as possible, most adults of any age should strive to exercise for about 30 minutes most days of the week. The type of exercise you should do largely depends on your own health status as well as what exercises your doctor says is safe for you. Typically, the types of exercises that you should do for optimum health fall into four major categories which Toronto Home Care Assistance has outlined below:

  1. Endurance: Also called aerobic exercises, these fitness activities are designed to get your heart rate up. Good low-impact endurance exercises for seniors include brisk walking, swimming, hiking, dancing, or anything that gets you moving and raises your heart rate for about 30 minutes at a time. If you’re not used to exercising, walking is a great way to get started since it’s easy to do and minimal equipment is needed.
  1. Strength Training: These exercises, which should be completed a few times a week, typically involve lifting light weights or using resistance bands. Even very light weights can help to tone your muscles and help you to complete everyday tasks such as carrying groceries.
  1. Balance: Having a strong muscle core and working on your balance through exercises like yoga, tai chi, and Pilates can help you feel more stable and prevent falls (which are a common cause of injury for older adults). There are a growing number of senior centers and gyms that are offering these classes specifically for senior adults and their unique needs.
  1. Flexibility: Simple stretching exercises can help your muscles remain limber and help to maintain mobility as you age. These exercises can be done from the comfort of home, with little to no equipment required.

If you’re not sure how to get started, think about incorporating physical activity that you enjoy into your daily routine, such as gardening or golf. And before beginning any exercise plan, talk with your doctor to make sure that the level of physical activity you’re planning is safe for you.

For more information on senior fitness and health, reach out to Home Care Assistance of Toronto today. We are a leading provider of hourly and 24 hour care in Toronto, with a unique approach to care, The Balanced Care Method™, which focuses on the importance of daily exercise, nutritious meal preparation, social ties and calmness and purpose for seniors and older adults. Call 416-488-8777 for more information or to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly Care Managers.

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