For a new exercise program your senior really can’t beat walking. It’s easy to do and it’s something that she can do with friends if she wants. There are a host of reasons it’s a good choice.
She Doesn’t Need Fancy Equipment
One of the best reasons to give walking a try before other types of exercise is that it doesn’t require any sort of special equipment or tools for her to get started. She might want an activity tracker or pedometer if she’s interested in tracking steps or distance, but that isn’t essential. So while your senior can get fancier if she wants, she doesn’t have to. A solid pair of walking shoes is about the only requirement.
She Can Manage Health Issues
Exercise is recommended very often to manage health issues like high cholesterol and other concerns. Your senior’s doctor may have even recommended some form of exercise for a while now. Your senior isn’t likely to solve all of her health concerns with one walk. It takes time for her to reap the benefits of moving a little more regularly.
Walking Can Help Mental Health, Too
But walking can help your senior’s mental health, too. If she’s dealing with stress and anxiety in particular, walking is a repetitive exercise that can help to get her blood flowing and release endorphins. Other issues, like depression, may also benefit from regular walking. Regular exercise can help to boost mood, boost energy levels, and improve sleep, which helps energy and mood, too.
Walking Can Help if She Has Weight Issues
If your elderly family member is having issues managing her weight, regular walking can help. Walking helps to build up muscle tone, especially in her larger muscles. More muscle helps to burn fat more easily, which can be a huge bonus. Your senior doesn’t need to start out powerwalking to get these benefits, either. Slow, steady walking with gradual increases in speed and distance pays off.
She Might Be Able to Change Some Habits
Bad habits are tough to kick, especially if they’re ones that your elderly family member enjoys. She might be eating foods that aren’t great for her or any number of other choices that aren’t such a good idea. Sedentary lifestyles are a habit. Adding regular walking to her day gives her a chance to redo those habits.
It’s always a good idea to make sure that your senior’s doctor recommends exercise for her before she starts any new exercise program, even walking. If she is nervous about walking alone, it might help to have elderly care providers go with her for a walk. They can also help with other tasks and offer friendly companionship at the same time.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING ELDERLY CARE IN ROCKY MOUNT, NC, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS TODAY. CALL (919) 761-5346.