Being physically active on a regular basis is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Studies have shown that exercise provides many health benefits and older adults can gain a lot by staying physically active.
The Benefits of Exercise Include:
- Overall health – Physical Activity / Exercise
- Prevent /Delay disease
- Manage stress / Improve mood
- Maintain Independence
Health experts say that older adults should aim to be as active as possible. Staying physically active and exercising regularly can produce long-term health benefits and even improve the lives of those who already have a disease or disability. What is the difference between physical activity and exercise? Physical activities are activities that get your body moving such as walking the dog, gardening or taking the stairs. Exercise is a form of activity that is specific, structured and repetitive such as strength training, aerobic class or swimming.
Researchers have found that staying physically active and exercising regularly can help prevent or delay many diseases or disabilities. In some cases, exercise can be an effective treatment for many chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Moderate physical activity on a regular basis can help manage stress and improve mood by reducing feelings of depression. Studies also show that exercise can improve or maintain some aspects of cognitive function, such as your ability to plan an activity, ignore irrelevant information or the ability to quickly shift between tasks.
Maintaining independence requires the ability to perform basic self-care. The standard definition is that a person must be able to perform the basic activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, transferring (getting in and out of beds and chairs), walking, eating, and using the toilet, without assistance. Staying active can help older adults retain functional independence and quality of life.
You can achieve a significantly higher quality of life if you exercise regularly and increase your daily activity level.
Recommended guidelines: 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise spread over a 5 day period. Strength training at least 2 days per week, Balance exercises as needed and Flexibility exercises daily.