For many seniors, particularly the older ones; the idea of exercising is one that’s a little bit scary. But there’s no such thing as being too old to exercise, and this is something that seniors need to understand. They do, however, need to be careful when they get started with any new exercise program and ensure that they’re well prepared.

1. Talk to a doctor  - seniors should never start a new exercise program without first consulting a doctor

2. Invest in the right clothing – the right clothing is important for anyone who’s engaged in a physical activity, but seniors who are sensitive to changing temperatures and at a greater risk for injury should be more cautious. Supportive, comfortable shoes are essential, and clothing should be loose yet flexible and breathable

3. Always warm-up – exercise should never begin without a warm-up to prevent injury. A low-impact activity can warm up muscles, get blood circulating and increase overall body temperature

4. Don’t start too quickly – early into an exercise program, seniors need to build their endurance. Going too hard, too fast can be physically damaging. Intensity can be built as endurance improves

5. Cool down – a cool down portion of a workout is as important as the warm-up. It allows the body to physically cool down and move into a state of rest

6. Schedule it in – to keep up the motivation to exercise, seniors should set their next workout!

Via: The Franklin Institute

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The health of your heart goes far beyond happiness – it’s essential to healthy aging and can help provide for good health and longevity. Exercise is one of the best ways to keep a healthy heart well into older adulthood, and simple lifestyle changes can make all of the difference.

1. Park farther from entrances in parking lots – instead of parking as close to the door as possible, park a little bit further away to get in some exercise

2. Start walking before you arrive at your house – if you’re taking a bus or even getting a ride, get out a few minutes early and walk the rest of the way to your destination

3. Take the stairs – depending upon your physical abilities, taking the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator can benefit you greatly

4. Take a break – if you work or are engaged in volunteer activities, take a little stroll on your break

5. See cleaning as exercise – try to turn housework into exercise and do it at a brisk pace. Vacuum, mow the lawn, dust or rake leaves and get your heart rate up

6. Walk your pet – if you have a dog, it needs exercise, but so do you. Make it an enjoyable activity to do together daily

7. Exercise with family – if you live with family members, make exercise part of your ritual. Or invite friends or family for a stroll in the park

Via: The Franklin Institute

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Bowling in weekly leagues have been a quintessential and sometimes stereotypical activity attributed to seniors in Minnesota and across the United States. Despite the stereotype, it has been an activity that many seniors enjoy because it allows them to socialize with their peers and leave behind the worries than can come with aging. However, attending a weekly bowling league the traditional way has put stress upon seniors physically; since it requires seniors to lug around and throw hefty bowling balls; and emotionally, since they are faced with the logistical stress of how to get to their Minnesota bowling hall if they no longer drive.

A new trend is sweeping the nation when it comes to seniors and bowling that eliminates these physical and emotional stresses; making the activity more enjoyable for all seniors. Wii Bowling leagues have been spreading like wildfire across the US; with events being held on a weekly basis in senior’s centers, community centers, nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Instead of using a bowling lane and heavy bowling balls, the leagues rely upon the Nintendo Wii gaming system which has seniors using a TV screen and special interactive controllers to simulate a round of bowling. These events can take place anywhere so seniors no longer have to worry about their accessibility to local bowling halls and the use of the controllers reduce the strain that comes with bowling with heavy bowling balls.

Tell us seniors, have you tried the Wii for bowling or another activity?

Sources:

1. Chicago Tribune

2. The Medical News

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