6 Exercises to Improve Mobility in Seniors

Exercise has been a great therapy in keeping the body functional. Not only does it strengthen muscles, it also has a surplus of health benefits. Seniors particularly need to exercise to keep their bodies in good shape as they age. Exercise is essential for maintaining mobility in seniors as failure to exercise can result in social, psychological, and physical challenges. Research points to numerous benefits of exercise to the human body. This article will highlight some of the benefits of exercise as well as explore 6 exercises that seniors can do to improve mobility. You must consult with your doctor to see if the exercises that will be discussed are appropriate for you.

Here are some of the primary benefits of exercise:

Improves mood: If you are feeling low and need a healthy emotion boost, then tap into some exercise. How does it work? Physical activity causes the release of chemicals in the brain that increase the production of hormones that make you happy and relaxed, especially after a long and tiring day.

Enhances sleep: Who doesn't love a good night’s rest? The relaxation that accompanies a night’s worth of sleep is incomparable. It gives you the energy you need to start your day. Exercise can assist you with achieving this. It can make you fall asleep faster and help you to get adequate rest. Wait a bit! Don't exercise too close to bedtime as you may have a hard time falling asleep as your energy level may be too high for you to sleep.

Helps to fight various health problems: Seniors are usually affected by numerous conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, metabolic issues as well as arthritis and other health problems. When you exercise, you increase your overall health.

Keeps your brain functioning: Science has proven that exercise has a surplus of benefits for the brain. A healthy body usually results in a healthy mind. Exercise can improve cognitive function in seniors. It is also said that it helps to reduce Alzheimer’s and dementia by 50%. Amazing right? It certainly is!

Now, let's explore 6 exercises that can help to keep the elderly up and about and improve their muscle function and mobility.

 

Walking

First on our list is walking. This is one of the easiest exercises for seniors however, at times you may experience challenges due to illness and old age. Depending on your health challenge, you can walk certain distances. If you have mobility challenges, you can consult with your doctor to determine the distance you can walk at a time. Once your doctor approves, you can start walking short distances then gradually increase with time. Walking helps to improve cardiovascular function and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

You can get your favorite music on your playlist and walk in the early mornings. If possible, you can get someone to join you. If you get tired, feel free to switch to your mobility scooter to ease fatigue. Ensure that the areas you walk are free from things that can cause falls.

Dumbbells Workout
Shake those dumbbells. These exercises help to build muscles of the upper body. It also helps to improve joint strength and increase upper and lower body strength. Be sure to assess the weight of the dumb bells before use. You can start with lightweight dumbbells then gradually increase the weight. It is important that you give your body enough time to rest during each workout session to minimize fatigue.

Resistant Bands Workout
This type of exercise requires you to use stretchy strips of rubber that increase limb mobility and reduce body stress. They are available on the fitness market and are easy to use. You can use our scooters while performing some of these exercises.

Water Aerobics

The presence of chronic pain may cause seniors to fear performing water exercises. However, a little water aerobics exercise can go a long way with keeping you fit. Water-based exercises help to improve joint function as well as increase muscle mass and strength.

Dancing

Are you ready to get your dancing game on?! It’s time to flex those muscles and move those hips. This is an easy exercise to perform. You can get your friends or family members to join you, or if you want to get your groove on solo, go right ahead and have fun. If you are in a chair and is unable to move your lower limbs, you can still dance using your upper body. Dancing helps to strengthen your muscles and lift your mood.

T-Rows Exercise

If you are confined in a wheelchair you can try this exercise. It entails sitting in your wheelchair, scooters or on a chair while holding a band to your chest. It requires you to stretch your arms out while holding the band in a horizontal position while it touches your breastbone. You can do ten of these stretches per day. If you don’t have a mobility device that can assist with this exercise, feel free to hop on over to our website and view our wide variety of mobility devices to fit your needs. You won’t be disappointed.