Doctors have long known that sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets are the most important factors leading to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks, especially in seniors. Just a 30-minute walk every day can make a significant difference in an elderly person’s weight maintenance and it will likely help with mental health and attitude as well.
A report by the U.S. Surgeon General found that:
– Older adults, both male and female, can benefit from regular physical activity.
– Physical activity need not be strenuous to achieve health benefits.
– Older adults can obtain significant health benefits with a moderate amount of physical activity, preferably daily. A moderate amount of activity can be obtained in longer sessions of moderately intense activities (such as walking) or in shorter sessions of more vigorous activities (such as fast walking or stair walking).
– Additional health benefits can be gained through greater amounts of physical activity, either by increasing the duration, intensity, or frequency. Because risk of injury increases at high levels of physical activity, care should be taken not to engage in excessive amounts of activity.
– Previously sedentary older adults who begin physical activity programs should start with short intervals of moderate physical activity (5-10 minutes) and gradually build up to the desired amount.
– Older adults should consult with a physician before beginning a new physical activity program.
– In addition to cardio-respiratory endurance (aerobic) activity, older adults can benefit from muscle-strengthening activities. – Stronger muscles help reduce the risk of falling and improve the ability to perform the routine tasks of daily life.
Motivation is a consideration, and for a person living alone it is often hard to get excited about going out for a walk when the TV is sitting right there, begging to be watched. This is where a home companion can help, because our home healthcare aides are trained to encourage physical activity when appropriate and can help motivate an otherwise sedentary person to move.
South Florida Home Health Care
Feingold Home Health Care provides experienced caregivers at all levels to help patients from companionship to help with household chores to medical assistance. We are here to help you with questions about cost, insurance, and what’s the best course of action for you or for your loved one.
Reach out to us by calling 561-210-9096
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