The Importance Of Exercise For Whole Body Wellbeing

 

Staying active is an important part of whole-body wellness at every stage of life — and it’s especially beneficial as we grow older. While it’s natural to notice changes in stamina, strength and flexibility over time, that doesn’t mean exercise should come to a stop. In fact, regularly taking part in some form of exercise, even low-impact, helps us improve balance and mobility, increase flexibility, reduce pain and joint stiffness, and even improve our mood.

Physical Activity Enhances Health & Longevity

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) determined that all older adults can benefit from regular, moderate physical activity, even those with medical conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, obesity and high blood pressure. It’s also been shown that remaining active in our older years not only positively impacts physical health but also our mental and emotional well-being.

How Senior Living Can Benefit Your Health

Exercise can improve overall health and well-being for older adults in the following ways:

  1. Protects Against Chronic Disease: Chronic illnesses including cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, diabetes, obesity and hypertension, can be prevented by exercise. Even individuals with a chronic condition can help minimize their symptoms through physical activity.
  2. Prevents Bone Loss: While post-menopausal women lose up to 2% of their bone density each year, did you know that both men and women lose bone density as they age, which can cause a greater risk for bone fractures. Strength training has been shown to counteract this loss and restore bone density, improving balance and reducing the risk of fractures.
  3. Reduces Cognitive Decline: Physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive function, which could help those with early signs of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. One study found that participants over the age of 60 showed fewer Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers after 30 minutes of daily exercise.
  4. Maintain Function & Prevent Falls: Reduced muscle strength can affect mobility and everyday activities, from carrying groceries to stepping up onto a curb. According to the National Institute on Aging, even minor improvements in muscle strength can lead to meaningful gains in function. Exercises that build lower-body strength are especially important, as they can improve balance and help reduce the risk of falls and related injuries.
  5. Boosts Immunity: Moderate exercise has been linked to a lower incidence of acute respiratory illness. The anti-inflammatory effects of physical activity may also support better immune function.
  6. Improves Mood: The endorphins produced in our bodies by exercise make us feel good. It’s been shown to help with symptoms of anxiety and depression and encourage a sense of well-being. Studies have shown that the mood-boosting benefits of exercise continue well into old age.

If you’re looking to add more physical activity to your routine, a welcoming community like Hamlet at Chagrin Falls can provide the social connection and motivation you need to make it easier — and more enjoyable — to stay active. Sharing activities with friends not only builds motivation but also adds a meaningful social connection to each day. Residents can take part in a wide variety of opportunities, from yoga classes and walking clubs to gardening and enjoying nature. With so many activities conveniently available both within the community and throughout the greater community, it’s easy to stay active and feel young at heart.