Exercise
It should be no surprise to anyone that exercise is a key element of health and wellness. Experts have been recommending exercise for years. Medical doctors now counsel patients about the benefits of regular exercise, including strength training.
Understanding the connection between exercise and health, the government is now promoting programs to help citizens increase the amount of exercise they get in addition to adopting healthy eating habits. Before starting any exercise program, be sure to consult with your doctor.
And remember, exercise can be fun. It can be playing a sport you love, walking in the park with friends, taking the stairs instead of the escalator, walking your dog, gardening... any number of things. Be creative and find something that you love to do so you will stick to it.
Though these site links are offered as a means to help you - the caregiver - stay healthy and reduce stress, the information is also appropriate and useful for your family member if his or her medical condition permits. Exercise may actually improve his/her situation. There are adaptive exercises designed just for seniors that are gentle on the joints and have slow easy movements. Many Senior Centers offer this type of exercise.
Consult with doctor before starting any exercise routine, especially where your family member is concerned. But, you may find this is just the thing you both need.
Body Mass Index Calculator
Choosing Appropriate Footwear
Exercise and Your Heart - a Guide
Fitness on a Budget - Low Cost Ideas for Getting Into Shape
Growing Stronger- Strength Training for Older Adults
HealthierUS.gov
Keep Active and Safe at Any Age
Physical Activity Fact Sheet
Questions & Answers About Arthritis and Exercise
SmallStep.gov
Starting a Walking Program
Staying Healthy at 50+ - a Guide
Tips for Buying Exercise Equipment
Walking for Health
You're It Get Fit
Senior Centers often offer exercise classes and exercise equipment for seniors to use. Check with your local center to sign up for classes or to learn more about what is available. Frequently, the use of exercise equipment is free of charge. Since gym membership can be expensive, utilizing the resources of your local senior center could be a real benefit in getting you started and keeping you fit. And, it's all in a relaxed, informal atmosphere with people you know. Try it today!
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And, don't forget opportunities to have fun as you exercise such as dance classes at the Senior Centers or Senior Games. You can locate a local senior center through your Area Agency on Aging.
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Senior Centers |
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More on Senior Centers in NC |
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Find a Senior Center Through Your Area Agency on Aging |
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National Senior Games |
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NC Senior Games |
