Being active is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as an elderly. The health benefits of an active lifestyle cannot be underestimated, as it helps to improve blood pressure, diabetes, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and other ailments you may deal with in your golden years.
There are several things you can do to promote an active lifestyle, even as you age. Read on to discover interesting ways you can keep your mind and body active, and stay an active senior.
Low-Impact Exercises
Exercises are a great way to keep the body in shape. There are concerns surrounding exercising as an adult, as adults take longer to heal and recover from injuries. However, the benefits of exercising for an active lifestyle outweigh the risks.
Low-impact exercises are good for people of all ages as there are little to no risks involved. Build your fitness level slowly according to what your body can withstand. Below are a few low-impact exercises you can try within the comfort of your home:
- Chair Yoga
- Lifting light weights
- Biking
- Dancing
- Walking
Gardening
If you enjoy being outdoors, gardening is an ideal option for you to stay active. You don’t have to do intense gardening activities if you are physically unable to. You can simply settle for doing basic tasks such as raking, seed placement, and watering. Not only will you be getting your body and mind active, but you will also be getting some dose of vitamin D that your body needs.
Pet Therapy
If you are an animal lover, this is a great option for you as you get to spend time with pets and other animals. From popular pets like dogs and cats to fishes and birds, interacting with a pet can be a highly engaging activity for your body and mind. Just like people, animals want to have fun with a companion, and playing with them will benefit you both physically and mentally.
Cooking and Baking
If you are a foodie and like getting involved in the preparation of food, this is an ideal choice for you. You can participate by cooking, baking, and serving simple recipes like cookies. If you are more skilled in the kitchen, you can help in cooking a more complex menu. This is a fun and stimulating activity that can help you stay active and engaged with family and friends.
Find a New Hobby
A great way to keep your mind and body engaged is by exploring new hobbies. Indulge in an activity that interests you so that you can have fun while doing it. These hobbies can include:
- Playing musical instruments
- Learning a new skill such as knitting
- Painting
- Sketching
Engaging in Family Activities
Being active with your family is a great and fun way to improve your physical and mental health. There are several activities idea you can participate in with your family members, both young and adults. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Walk your grandchildren to the park
- Play catch or soccer with them
- Garden with your adult family members
- Go out on movie dates with your loved ones
Interested in moving into a community that allows you to participate in fun activities to improve your physical and mental wellbeing? Our independent living community is the right fit for you.