Regular Exercise Benefits Seniors

Beauty or Health?

Today much of society seems to be more focused on beauty than health. Health Clubs are on every street corner, TV shows promote a vast array  of reverse aging products with Face Book and Twitter displaying the before & after pictures.  We have become a nation focused on health conscious young people with little attention given to our seniors.  Today, Baby Boomers are the most educated and health conscious group of retirees this nation has ever had and regular exercise is an increasing part of their daily routine

However seniors at home alone face challenges building a regular exercise routine. Fear of injury with no immediate assistance available or lack of motivation without other seniors to participate with.But according to the American Academy of Family Physicians mild exercise for seniors over the age of 65 is safe and highly recommended. It is shown to lower chances of injury, prevent disease and improve mood. For seniors starting out on an exercise program it is advised to first consult a physician, start slow and go at an easy pace.

The Many Benefits or Regular Exercise

The health benefits of regular exercise are many.  It can help avoid the onset of Alzheimer’s and strengthen the immune system to help fight off disease.  It can help lower blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease or stroke.  It can also reduce the risk of osteoporosis.  Exercise greatly increases balance and reduces the risk of falling and possibly breaking a hip.  Exercise also increases confidence thereby decreasing the fear of falling and potential injury.

There are many professional organizations offering all levels of exercise training to seniors.   Aerobic Exercise is often not recommended for seniors starting out on an exercise program.   However, there are a lot good basic strength training and balance/flexibility exercises available.  Lifting light weights two or three times a week can strengthen key muscles in the back and shoulder helping to prevent back injury.  Leg exercises can help prevent knee injury or the need for knee replacement surgery.  Basic exercise can help to improve overall health and increase stamina plus boost energy levels throughout the day.

One of the most basic forms of exercise is walking.  A good walk can help the cardiovascular system.  When walking with a friend or in a walking club, the social interaction becomes an additional benefit.  Swimming or water aerobics is another great low joint impact exercise program to promote good health.

Cielo Azul’s Exercise Programs

At Cielo Azul Retirement Community we recognize the many benefits of regular exercise programs tailored to a seniors’ specific needs. It was an integral factor in the design of the community itself. Our entry level “stretch and go” program incorporates gentle stretching and indoor walks through the atrium garden with its’ centerpiece water feature. The intermediate walking programs make use of the many outdoor trails with their magnificent views of the Sandia Mountains. The Health Club offers a full range of workout equipment designed for seniors. It also includes a lap pool, sauna and steam room. Massage services are available to conclude a workout session.

All seniors benefit from some form of physical activity. It promotes good health, increased energy, increased mental alertness and at Cielo Azul Retirement Community increases the opportunity for social interaction. We look forward to welcoming you here.