Regardless of your age, physical activity is important. It helps keep you mentally alert, emotionally sound, and physically healthy. Even as people age, they can lead a fuller life and notice a reduction in chronic illness if they stay active on a regular basis. However, for older individuals, a distinct challenge can be presented by the desire to stay physically active. Clearly, high-impact activities and contact sports are out, for the most part. What’s more, for retirement-age individuals, dehydration and heat stroke are risks during the hot summer months.
Fortunately, there are numerous summer activities for the elders that are safe and enjoyable. Additionally, to provide cardiovascular exercise (at least 30 minutes a day), older adults may choose to participate in low-impact activities. This can help minimize tension in joints and muscles and lower blood pressure. Increase your energy level throughout the day and improve your cardiac health and cholesterol levels with low-impact exercise.
Here are some activities you can engage in that are considered low-impact and appropriate for summer. Remember to always wear sunscreen when you’re outside and, if it’s particularly hot, stay in the shade or opt for an indoor, air-conditioned activity instead.
Pilates
For older adults who wish to improve their flexibility, muscle tone, and posture, one low-impact method is through Pilates. These can strengthen joints and improve respiratory function, as well. This type of exercise can drive away depressive thoughts, improve mood, relieve tension, and improve a person’s balance.
Swimming
If you look at all the activities you have done throughout your life, you have received the best exercise through swimming. It can, without affecting joints, help strengthen muscles. It also provides a cardio workout. In fact, for maintaining your overall physical health, it’s perfect. If you live near the ocean, or a lake, you can swim in a natural setting. Both indoor and outdoor pools are available through a number of organizations, as well. The senior living community in which you live may even have a pool.
Rowing
This is more of an indoor sport as the machinery needed for it is probably kept indoors (possibly a gym or workout room). If the weather isn’t too hot, however, and you have a friend with a rowboat, you might consider rowing for real! Regardless, compared to cycling, if you do it for the same amount of time, more calories are burned by rowing. It can help strengthen your legs, lower back, and abs.
Bicycling
Without putting undue stress on your body, you can work as hard as you want – or as gently as you wish – and get a workout through cycling. Though bicycles can be expensive, it’s almost always possible to pick one up at a rummage sale, thrift store, etc. If a friend of yours has a bicycle, go as a pair.
Dancing
Once again, you can dance as hard or as gently as you want. It’s all up to you. Not only is dancing a good form of exercise, but it’s also a fantastic way to socialize with others. Get a group together and search out some local music (concerts in the park, festivals with live bands, etc.).
Gardening
Lots of low-impact activity is provided by watering, digging, weed pulling, planting, etc. while gardening. It provides purpose and can have a calming effect, as well. If it’s difficult for you to get up and down, on and off the ground, consider making raised garden beds (or having someone make them for you).
Walking
Did you know that even 30 minutes of a comfortable pace will make a huge difference in your physical and mental health? It will. Make sure you have the right shoes and clothing when you go for a walk. Find a friend and go as a pair, if you wish, so you have someone to talk to.
Join in Our Wellness Programs at Hidden Meadows On The Ridge
With numerous activities, events, workshops, and more, you’ll always have something to do when living in Hidden Meadows On The Ridge. Additionally, the wellness programs we offer take care of the physical and social aspects of our residents. One way or another, there will be something perfect for you to get involved in at Hidden Meadows On The Ridge.
