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There is a common perception that as people get older, you lose the ability to do less things. Working out and exercising are one of those things. But exercise is still a necessity to continue to feel good and be healthy as you age. In fact, while the are life insurances who will still insure seniors with medical conditions, many life insurances and other type of insurances prefer seniors to be healthier – something exercise can help with. If you are a senior or have a loved one who is a senior, then you probably already know the importance of keeping physically fit. Your level of fitness is something that needs to be maintained constantly, and it is very much tied to your general overall health. Here are some ways to keep fit as a senior.

Source: Guaranteed Issue Life

Water Aerobics

Many seniors find that the buoyancy of water helps them perform exercises that they can no longer do on the ground. Water aerobics has also been shown to help build cardiovascular health and stamina. Many people also enjoy the chance to get together with their friends in a fun environment. While swimming laps is an excellent exercise for some folks, water aerobics encourages seniors to walk in the water, do jumping jacks, and perform high-knee lifts.

Chair Yoga

Anyone can do chair yoga, but senior citizens are the target demographic for this activity. Even if a senior uses a wheelchair or finds it difficult to walk, chair yoga can still provide benefits. It may be particularly beneficial for those who have balance problems, but it may not be strenuous enough for healthier individuals. Chair yoga can help seniors improve their flexibility and strength. Other benefits include assisting the seniors to understand better where their body is in space along with helping to keep their minds clearer. Stretching with the hands above the head, doing ankle circles while holding feet in the air, and performing seated arm circles are just a few of the moves that seniors may want to try.

Source: Assisted Living Center

Dancing

Dancing is a wonderful form of exercise for seniors. Lively music can help improve mood, and the heart often gets a good workout when dancing. Dance has been shown to increase balance and flexibility, which may help to prevent falls. Even if the senior needs to stay seated, simply moving the arms and legs to a lively tune can help individuals to keep in shape.

Source: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Walking

Taking a quick stroll around the neighborhood for at least 20 minutes can help keep your heart healthy, lower blood pressure, and control blood sugar. Research shows that people who walk regularly get sick less often than those who do not exercise.

There are many beginner forms of exercise that seniors can do. Encourage yourself or your loved ones to keep moving. All sorts of activity help the heart and release feel-good hormones into the bloodstream. Get seniors involved today by joining them in their exercise regime.

Welcome Homecare puts the heart into homecare. Contact Jacksonville’s highest quality home healthcare agency today to help your loved ones get the help they need and the love they deserve.