Keeping active is a challenge for a lot of seniors. Keeping in shape is important, but additional factors like having less energy and increased physical pain can lead to them to feel like exercising is an impossibility.
However, one very simple and everyday activity might hold the key…Walking.
Yes, walking as part of a senior living routine holds many benefits. Simply going for a regular stroll can help in everything, from depression to Alzheimer’s, not to mention what staying in shape can do for us physically. Here are five reasons why seniors in the Minneapolis area should consider go for a walk more often.
1. Improves Cardiovascular health
The heart is a muscle like any other, meaning the more that it is pushed, the stronger it gets. As we advance in age, little to no activity at all often leads to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and an increased risk of heart disease.
For this reason, walking for seniors is a controlled and enjoyable way to give the heart what it needs to keep healthy.
2. Weight Loss
In addition to improving heart health for seniors, walking is also great to stay in shape. While you might think that the best way to lose weight is by vigorous exercise, walking regularly is a secret weapon that many personal trainers encourage their clients in the Minneapolis area to make part of their routine.
Burning additional calories is more difficult for older people due to the loss in mobility. However, by becoming a regular walker, your daily routine will consist of an activity that serves to burn those calories off without much effort involved.
3. Eases and Delays the Onset of Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Studies have shown that walking can help in the prevention of crippling cognitive diseases.
Research has shown that walking for a least 6 miles a week can greatly lower the risk for Alzheimer’s, a staggering 50% reduction in fact. Not only that, but a short walk in the morning for those with dementia is shown to be good at preventing sundowning later in the day.
4. Walking for Seniors is Good for the Mind
Common challenges many seniors face for their mental health include loneliness and depression. Walking works well to combat both of these ailments.
This free and fun activity is a great excuse to meet up with others and get to know those in the Minneapolis community. In addition, the release of endorphins experienced when doing any form of exercise will do a lot to ease the symptoms of depression.
5. Reduces Aches and Pains
The natural aging process leads to a weakening of our joints and muscles. The result is pain that many seniors struggle with on a daily basis. The good news is that walking can serve to strengthen these parts of the body for seniors.
Another advantage is that there are countless benefits to walking when you have arthritis. This low-impact activity can help to strengthen your bones and send more much-needed nutrients to your joints through increased blood flow.
Helping Minneapolis Seniors Stay Active
As we have shown, there are countless benefits of walking for seniors. Although it may seem too good to be true, one of the keys to good health is really as simple as putting one foot in front of another.
At Sholom, we feel strongly that an active life equals a happy one. For this reason, we take great pride in keeping those that we look after busy with a range of activities, including physical ones.
To find out more about who we are and what we can do for you or your loved ones, don’t hesitate to contact us.
