We’ve learned how to exercise our minds with the some of our favorite puzzle apps for seniors and we’ve even learned the secret to a well-balanced senior diet, but what about how to keep our bodies fit while we age as well?
The rumors are true — for most folks, exercising gets more and more difficult with age, due mostly to a decrease in mobility. All that wear and tear over the years can definitely put a damper on your daily workout unless of course, you modify your workout accordingly. Enter, six simple exercises that seniors can do right from their chair. Yup, they really work!
6 Easy Exercises for Seniors to Do Every Day
- Simple Stretches: Begin by stretching each arm across your chest, one at a time, and holding it there for a few seconds. Then reach each arm overhead, while holding the opposite elbow, stretch both arms forward, up and back. Then, reach up, over and down to your toes to stretch those hamstrings as well.
- Toe Taps: Stretch your legs out in front of you, with your heels on the ground. Then, alternate pointing and flexing, making sure to tap your toes on the ground at the end of each point. This will help strengthen the muscles in your shin, which are essential for walking and climbing stairs.
- Arm Circles: Hold a ball overhead and make a large circle, in front of the body — left, down, right, up, repeat. Then switch directions. If it’s too difficult, try doing this sans ball, or just hold your arms straight out instead of overhead, making a smaller circle. This will bolster up your shoulder strength.
- Tummy Twist: Holding a ball close to your chest, with your elbows bent, and your back in an upright position, rotate your torso as far left as possible, then back to the middle, and to the right. Only your upper body should be moving. This will engage your upper body strength and core.
- Squeezes: With your trusty ball held out in front of you in both hands, squeeze as hard as you can from either side and release. This works your chest and arms!
- Knee Lifts: This one is a bit more ambitious, but when done correctly, can engage your core and quads. Start at a seated position sitting with your back to the chair. Alternate lifting each leg slowly, bringing your knee as close to your chest as possible, and returning to your starting position.
Exercise is so important and gets even more essential as we age. Make sure your loved one is immersed in as much activity as possible to keep them strong, healthy, and happy for years to come!
The Arbors Assisted Living is a community that works with support and compassion for the elderly. We provide a variety of activities that constitute a good, healthy lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more.